As Disney World has updated their resort rooms, they’ve made an update that many of us aren’t big fans of: removing mini-refrigerators and replacing them with beverage coolers.
Here’s some info and tips on navigating this for your trip.
Beverage coolers vs. mini fridge – what’s the difference?
Let’s start with comparing these 2 so you can see why it might matter.
Mini-refrigerators typically maintain temperatures under 40 degrees which is ideal for safe storage of things like milk, cheese, and yogurt. They usually also have a small freezer section and are deeper so can fit more inside.
Beverage coolers are usually smaller and have temps in the 40s – great for beverages and keeping things cool, but not a safe storage temp for many food items.
What to do if you need refrigerator temps
You have a few options if you find yourself needing refrigerator temps for storage.
- Get ice from the resort ice machine and keep your items cold that way
- Take items to bell services at the resort – they have their own freezers and refrigerators which might be a great option, especially when storing medicine or other important items
- Request a mini-refrigetator – there are a limited number of these available so don’t count on having 1 when making a request
- Book a room with a refrigerator – any room type that is a suite or villa will have a mini or full-sized refrigerator. That includes the suites at Art of Animation and All-Star Music, as well as any Villa property.
Trying to decide which resort to stay at? Be sure to check out the pros/cons of all Disney World resorts to help you in planning.
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JanH
Friday 7th of July 2023
Why would they replace the mini fridge? Looks like cooler is just not sufficient.
Ryan
Friday 1st of September 2023
@JanH, probably because they don’t want guests storing leftover food, forcing them to purchase new food instead.