Why You Should Always Leave a Coin in the Freezer Before Going on Vacation
If you’re planning to travel and leave food in your freezer, there’s a clever little trick that could help you decide whether it’s still safe to eat when you return.
Many people don’t realize that if a power outage happens while they’re away, the freezer can thaw and refreeze food — leaving it spoiled without them ever knowing.
To solve this problem, a woman named Sheila Pulanco Russell shared a simple method that went viral online.
All you need is a cup of water and a coin (a penny, nickel, or quarter will do). Here’s how it works:
Fill a cup with water and place it in the freezer until it’s completely frozen.
Put a coin on top of the frozen surface.
Leave it in your freezer while you’re away.
When you return, check the position of the coin:
Still on top: Your freezer kept everything frozen, and your food should be safe.
In the middle: The freezer may have thawed slightly but refroze quickly; most food should still be fine.
At the bottom: Your freezer likely defrosted completely, and the food is no longer safe to eat.
This “coin trick” has been shared thousands of times on Facebook because it’s so simple yet effective.
It gives peace of mind during vacations, evacuations, or even everyday power outages.
⚠️ Important Reminder: When in doubt, always prioritize safety. If you’re not sure whether your food is safe to eat, it’s better to throw it out. Health always comes first.
This tiny freezer hack can save you from the risk of foodborne illness — and it only takes a coin and a cup of water. Definitely worth trying before your next trip!
