Refrigerator coaster and method of using same

Abstract

A coaster for positioning on a surface within a refrigerator to provide a barrier between the refrigerator surface and consumables stored in the refrigerator can include an elongate panel having a first substantially straight side edge, and a second substantially straight side edge extending substantially parallel to the first straight side edge. First and second opposed contoured side edges connect the first and second straight side edges, and there is at least one perforated line, by which a portion of the panel is removable by tearing along the perforated line. As such, the size and shape of the panel can be varied to conform to a various shelves and bins within a refrigerator.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 585,404, filed Jan. 11, 2012.TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to an apparatus for use in a refrigerator to protect the surfaces of the refrigerator from stains resulting from leakage and condensation. One embodiment of the invention comprises a refrigerator liner that is perforated along such that the size of the coaster can be easily adjusted to conform to varying sizes of refrigerator shelves and / or compartments.[0003]Containers holding food and beverages stored in a refrigerator often leak or spill causing stains on the surfaces of the refrigerator that can be difficult to clean. In addition, food items, such as fruits, vegetables and meats, are often stored in refrigerator compartments and forgotten by the owner for long periods of time. The resulting spoilage of the long forgotten food typically results in the pro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a coaster apparatus that acts as a protective barrier between food and beverage items and the surface of the refrigerator on which the items are placed. The apparatus can easily adjust the size and shape to conform to varying sizes of refrigerator shelves and compartments and prevents liquid leaking from the refrigeratable items from contacting the refrigerator surface. The technical effects include preventing damage to the refrigerator and keeping the items stored there fresher for longer periods of time.

Problems solved by technology

Containers holding food and beverages stored in a refrigerator often leak or spill causing stains on the surfaces of the refrigerator that can be difficult to clean.

In addition, food items, such as fruits, vegetables and meats, are often stored in refrigerator compartments and forgotten by the owner for long periods of time.

The resulting spoilage of the long forgotten food typically results in the production of malodorous liquid leaking and staining the refrigerator surface.

Condensation forming on food and beverage containers can also produce unwanted liquid on the refrigerator surfaces.

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