Butter storage is a topic that divides kitchens—some swear by the fridge, while others leave it out for convenience. So, who’s right?Because butter is mostly fat with very little water, bacteria don’t grow as easily as in other dairy products. However, leaving it out for too long, especially in warm conditions, can cause it to spoil or develop mold.

Keeping butter in the fridge is the safest option, but cold butter can be frustrating when you need a smooth spread. The best solution? Store most of it in the fridge and keep only a small portion at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want to go the extra mile, a butter bell can help keep it fresh while sitting on the counter.