Many users of household appliances, When faced with a breakdown or the need for thorough cleaning, they wonder: what is the name of the drawer in the refrigerator for vegetables and fruits? In everyday life, this part is often called simply “tray”, “container” or “compartment”, but the technically correct name is vegetable drawer or fruit cup. Understanding the exact terminology is necessary not only for searching for spare parts in manufacturers' catalogs, but also for correctly understanding the principles of operation of the cooling system of your unit.
This structural element is the most important part of the system Low Frost or classic drip defrosting, providing optimal conditions for products of plant origin. In modern models, such as Bosch, Liebherr or LG, these containers can be equipped with additional humidity regulators and special filters. Incorrect use or ignoring design features can lead to rapid deterioration of supplies and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
In this article we will analyze in detail the structure of this component, consider the differences between models and answer the question why the correct arrangement of products inside the box is so important for their safety. You will learn about the nuances of caring for plastic and glass, as well as how to avoid common mistakes when operating a refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: The design and names of parts may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and year of manufacture of the model. Always check the official instructions (user manual) for your specific brand of refrigerator before ordering spare parts.
Technical names and design features
In technical documentation and spare parts catalogs, this element is most often designated as container for vegetables or drawer. Design engineers use the term “freshness zone” when talking about advanced models with a separate cooling circuit. The main difference between a high-quality box and a simple plastic tray is the tight fit and the presence of special blinds to regulate the flow of cold air. Without these elements, it is impossible to maintain a stable microclimate.
The manufacturing material is usually impact-resistant polystyrene or polypropylene, which can withstand low temperatures and does not crack under mechanical stress. The bottom is often made of tempered glass or has a corrugated structure for better air circulation. In some premium models, for example, in lines Samsung with technology Space Max, the walls of the drawer can be thinner, which increases the usable volume of the chamber without changing the external dimensions of the refrigerator.
The drawer is secured on special skids or guides, which can be integrated into the chamber body or be part of the container itself. It is important that the sliding mechanism works smoothly, without jamming, since sudden jerks can damage not only the plastic, but also the cooling system located behind the back wall. Modern drawers often have transparent walls, which allows you to visually control the fullness without opening them completely and without disturbing the temperature regime.
Operating principle: zone of freshness and humidity
The main function that vegetable boxperforms is the creation and maintenance of high humidity. Unlike the main chamber, where the air is dry and cold, in this compartment the conditions are close to natural. This is achieved due to the fact that the drawer isolates the food from direct exposure to the flow of cold air from the freezer or main compartments. If vegetables were just lying on the shelf, they would quickly dehydrate and wilt.
Humidity adjustment is carried out using dampers or valves located on the front panel or inside the container itself. In the “high humidity” position, the damper is closed and the moisture evaporated by the food remains inside. In the “low humidity” position, air exchange occurs with the main chamber, which is necessary for storing fruits that emit ethylene. Incorrect setting of this parameter is a common cause of crop rotting.
The temperature in this zone is usually from +2 to +8 degrees Celsius, which is optimal for most crops. Some systems, such as BioFresh ot Liebherr or VitaFresh ot Boschuse separate fans and sensors to maintain precise temperatures in the drawer regardless of the main refrigerator compartment settings. This allows you to store food two to three times longer.
Table of optimal storage conditions
In order for your crop to remain fresh for as long as possible, it is necessary to take into account the individual requirements of different crops. Below is a table showing how different types of products react to conditions inside vegetable compartment.
| Product type | Optimal humidity | Temperature conditions | Shelf life (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leafy greens (lettuce, dill) | High (90-95%) | 0...+4 °C | 3-5 days |
| Root vegetables (carrots, beets) | Medium/High | +2...+6 °C | 2-3 weeks |
| Fruits (apples, pears) | Low/Average | +4...+8 °C | 1-2 weeks |
| Tomatoes and cucumbers | Average | +8...+10 °C | 5-7 days |
As can be seen from the data, there are no universal settings, so proper zoning inside the box itself or using separate containers inside it can significantly improve the result. For example, it is better to pack greens in sealed bags before placing them in a box, creating artificial high humidity.
Common problems and their solutions
Owners of refrigerators often face a situation when fruit box stops closing or moving out normally. One of the most common reasons is ice freezing on the guides. This may occur due to a loose refrigerator door or a faulty defrost system. Ice blocks movement, and an attempt to force open the box leads to breakage of the plastic fasteners.
Another common problem is the appearance of cracks on the bottom or walls. Plastic loses elasticity over time, especially if heavy pots or jars with hot contents are placed in it, which is strictly prohibited. Cracks break the tightness of the freshness zone, and moisture is no longer retained. In this case, the box ceases to perform its function, turning into an ordinary shelf.
- 🧊 Ice on the walls: The refrigerator must be completely defrosted within 10-12 hours. The use of a hair dryer is prohibited, as a sharp temperature change can deform the plastic.
- 🔧 Broken runners: If the guides are broken, the box will warp. It is necessary to replace the part with an original one or a compatible analogue.
- 🦠 Mold and odor: Arises due to infrequent washing and rotting of food debris in hard-to-reach corners. Disinfection with a solution of soda or vinegar is required.
⚠️ Attention: Never use abrasive cleaners or hard brushes to wash a plastic box. Microcracks left by scratches will become an ideal breeding ground for bacteria that cannot be washed out.
☑️ Diagnostics of the condition of the drawer
Rules for the care and cleaning of containers
Hygiene vegetable department is the key to your family’s health. It is recommended to thoroughly clean the drawers at least once a month. First you need to completely empty the refrigerator of food and remove all removable elements. It is better to wash plastic containers in warm water using a mild dishwashing detergent.
Particular attention should be paid to corners and joints, where dirt and juice from food often accumulate. After washing, be sure to wipe the box dry with a soft cloth before putting it back. Wet plastic in a cold chamber can cause condensation and ice to form more quickly. For disinfection, you can use a weak solution of baking soda, which is safe and does not leave chemical odors.
If you notice that the plastic has turned yellow, this may indicate exposure to pigments from foods (for example, carrots or beets) or the aging of the material. You can bleach plastic using special products or a citric acid solution, but deep color changes are often irreversible. In this case, you should think about replacing the part, since the old plastic becomes more fragile.
How to remove persistent odor from plastic?
If the smell remains after washing, place an activated carbon tablet, an open box of soda or a cotton pad soaked in vinegar inside the box overnight. These absorbents effectively draw out foreign odors.
What to do if it breaks: repair or replacement
If container for vegetables it is cracked or broken, the question arises of its restoration. You cannot glue food-grade plastic with regular glue - most compounds are toxic and cannot withstand low temperatures. Specialized food adhesives are rare and require complex application technology. Therefore, in most cases, it is more rational to purchase a new part.
When looking for a spare part, it is important to know the exact model of your refrigerator, which is usually indicated on a sticker inside the chamber or on the back wall. Boxes from different models, even from the same manufacturer, may differ in size, shape of runners and height of sides. Using the wrong drawer may cause it to not stay in place or prevent the door from closing.
A temporary solution may be to use appropriately sized plastic food containers inserted inside the damaged drawer to maintain its shape, or to place them directly on a shelf. However, this will interfere with air circulation and the effectiveness of the freshness zone. Therefore, it is not recommended to delay replacement, especially in the summer.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can it be washed vegetable drawer in the dishwasher?
In most cases, manufacturers do not recommend washing the plastic parts of the refrigerator in the dishwasher. High water temperatures (often above 60-70 degrees) can lead to deformation of the plastic, changes in its geometry and loss of transparency. It is better to wash by hand with warm water.
Why does water freeze in the vegetable drawer?
Freezing of water or the formation of an ice crust at the bottom of the drawer indicates a violation of the temperature regime. This may be caused by a faulty thermostat, a clogged drain hole, or the temperature in the chamber being too low. Also, the reason may be storing products with a high water content without packaging.
How to replace a broken box if the original cannot be found?
If the original spare part is discontinued, you can look for universal analog boxes by measuring the internal dimensions of the niche. As a last resort, you can use rectangular food containers made of frost-resistant plastic, selecting them in width and depth so that they fit freely into the compartment.
How to increase the shelf life of greens in the refrigerator?
To extend the life of greens, use a high humidity mode in the box. Alternatively, you can wrap the bunches in a damp paper towel and place them in a bag with holes for ventilation. This will create an ideal microclimate that prevents withering and rotting.