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AIBU?

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AIBU 16yo DSD leaving freezer open

179 replies

Reluctantstepmumof2 · 27/10/2025 14:49

DSD almost 17 repeatedly leaves the freezer door open, so all food needs chucking out on a regular basis. I'm at my wits end. DH tries to minimise any negative interactions with her so won't bring it up or anything else negative really. I have mentioned it a couple of times (she says sorry but then immediately does it again) but I don't want to push it and be seen as 'evil stepmother' she is sweet but very forgetful, disorganised and messy. I realise times have changed but when I was young my parents would have told me off for things like this which obv isn't ideal but was very effective as I'm a very careful considerate person now! Any advice on how to deal with this type of behaviour? This is just one of many similar examples...

OP posts:
Namechange822 · 27/10/2025 14:55

Can you put a note on the freezer saying please shut the door? Or one of those dog safe fridge catches so that she has to physically bolt it?

Choconuttolata · 27/10/2025 14:54

Get a freezer door alarm that tells you when it has been left open. My son with ASD does this too, but ours has a built in alarm that links to an app on your phone that warns you.

Cornflakegirl7 · 27/10/2025 14:53

Tell her that if it happens again she has to pay to replace the food?
How long before you notice? I have left my freezer open overnight before and not threw anything out-is it always necessary?

didntlikeanyofthesuggestions · 27/10/2025 14:53

Someone needs to have a word. How long is the door left open without anyone noticing if the food needs to be thrown away?