## 9. Milk Needs Consistent Refrigeration
Like other perishable dairy products, milk should be handled appropriately from the time you purchase it.
That means thinking about the trip home.
If you’re running several errands after leaving Costco, don’t let refrigerated groceries sit in a hot vehicle for an extended period.
When you get home, refrigerate milk promptly and keep your refrigerator at an appropriate temperature.
Where you store the milk in your refrigerator can matter as well. Refrigerator doors tend to experience more temperature fluctuation than interior shelves, so storing highly perishable foods in a consistently cold area of the refrigerator can be preferable.
Good storage habits can help preserve quality and reduce unnecessary waste.
## 10. Check the Container Carefully
Before placing milk in your cart, take a moment to inspect the container.
Look for obvious damage, leaks, or signs that the packaging has been compromised.
A damaged container can create a mess in your refrigerator and may indicate that the product was mishandled.
If you’re purchasing multiple containers, inspect each one rather than assuming they’re all in perfect condition.
It only takes a few seconds and can save you a frustrating cleanup later.
