How to Clean a Fridge: Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to clean fridge is essential for maintaining food safety and ensuring it runs efficiently. A clean fridge not only looks good but also prevents odours and bacteria build-up. This guide will walk you through how to clean a fridge effectively, with practical steps and tips to keep it sparkling and fresh. Without further ado, let’s begin!
How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator?
To keep a fridge in top condition, a thorough cleaning every 3–4 months is recommended. However, you should wipe down spills immediately to prevent sticky residues or bacterial growth. Regular maintenance, such as checking for expired food weekly, also helps keep your fridge hygienic. Seasonal deep cleans, especially before holidays or after heavy use, ensure your appliance stays fresh and efficient.
Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to cross-contamination of food, unpleasant odours, and even mould growth. By sticking to a cleaning schedule, you can extend the lifespan of your fridge and maintain a safe environment for your food, whether it’s stored in your kitchen fridge or a portable freezer box.
What Supplies Do You Need to Clean a Fridge Properly?
Before tackling the fridge cleaning job, it’s smart to have all the necessary supplies on hand. A little preparation goes a long way in making the process smoother and more effective. Let’s take a look at the essential tools and materials you’ll need.
Mild dish soap: Gentle and safe for cleaning fridge surfaces.
Warm water: Helps loosen grime without damaging components.
Microfibre cloths or sponges: Non-abrasive for wiping surfaces.
White vinegar: A natural disinfectant for tackling tough stains and odours.
Baking soda: Useful for deodorising and scrubbing stubborn spots.
Bucket or bowl: For mixing cleaning solutions.
Old toothbrush: Perfect for cleaning crevices and seals.
Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment: For dusting coils and vents (if accessible).
Optional: Use a cooler like the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer to keep food fresh while the fridge is off. Its strong insulation and built-in battery are perfect for short-term food storage during cleaning.
EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer
How to Clean a Fridge Step by Step?
So, how do you clean a refrigerator? Cleaning a fridge may seem like a daunting task, but it’s easier than you think when you break it down. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to clean a refrigerator thoroughly:
Turn Off and Empty the Fridge: Unplug the fridge or turn it off at the control panel to save energy and ensure safety. Remove all food items, placing perishables in a cooler with ice packs to keep them fresh.
Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out removable parts like shelves, drawers, and door bins. Soak them in a sink filled with warm water and a few drops of dish soap. This makes cleaning easier and prevents water from pooling inside the fridge.
Wipe Down the Interior: Mix a solution of equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Use a microfibre cloth to wipe down all interior surfaces, including walls, corners, and door seals. For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth and scrub gently.
Clean Shelves and Drawers: Rinse the soaked shelves and drawers with warm water. Use a sponge or toothbrush to scrub off any stuck-on residue. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
Tackle the Door Seals: Use an old toothbrush dipped in the vinegar solution to clean the rubber door seals, where grime and mould can accumulate. Ensure they’re completely dry to avoid mildew.
Clean the Exterior: Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap, paying attention to handles and control panels. For stainless steel fridges, use a specialised cleaner to avoid streaks.
Dust the Coils (Optional): If your fridge manual allows, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the condenser coils at the back or bottom. This improves efficiency and prevents overheating.
Reassemble and Restock: Once everything is dry, reassemble the shelves and drawers. Plug the fridge back in, let it cool down, and restock your food, checking for expired items as you go.
Additional Tips to Clean a Smelly Fridge
If your fridge has a persistent odour, try these tips to tackle it:
Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply it to smelly areas, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then wipe it off.
Vinegar Soak: Place a bowl of white vinegar inside the fridge for 4–6 hours to neutralise odours.
Activated Charcoal: Use charcoal sachets, available from brands like Whirlpool, to absorb lingering smells.
Check the Drip Pan: Some fridges have a drip pan underneath that can collect water and cause odours. Remove and clean it with soapy water if accessible.
For tough odours, repeat the vinegar soak or consider a fridge deodoriser product for long-term freshness.
How Can You Keep Your Fridge Smelling Fresh After Cleaning?
To maintain a fresh fridge after washing fridge interiors, follow these tips:
Use Odour Absorbers: Place an open box of baking soda or a container of coffee grounds on a shelf to absorb odours. Replace every 1–2 months.
Store Food Properly: Always store food in airtight containers to stop odors from spreading. Fridge-safe containers from brands like Bosch are a good option for keeping things sealed and fresh. To help avoid spoilage during outages, consider using a cooler like the EcoFlow GLACIER series. Its 2-inch insulation and strong seal help maintain cold temperatures and keep food fresh for longer, even without power.
Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe up spills as soon as they happen to avoid sticky residues and odours.
Add Natural Fresheners: Place a small bowl of vanilla extract or lemon slices in the fridge for a pleasant scent.
Regular Maintenance: Check for expired food weekly and wipe down high-touch areas like handles regularly.
Conclusion
By now, you know exactly how to clean fridge step by step. With regular care and a few natural cleaning essentials like vinegar and baking soda, you can keep your fridge fresh and hygienic year-round. Remember, a clean fridge means fresher food and a healthier kitchen!
FAQs
What happens if you don’t clean your fridge?
Failing to clean your fridge can lead to bacterial growth, cross-contamination of food, and unpleasant odours. Over time, mould can develop, and spilled food can cause sticky residues that attract pests. Regular cleaning prevents these issues and ensures food safety.
What is the best thing to clean inside fridge?
A mixture of warm water and white vinegar is the best solution for cleaning fridge interiors. It’s natural, effective at removing grime, and safe for food storage areas. Baking soda is also great for scrubbing stains and neutralising odours.
What should be avoided in cleaning of refrigerator?
Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage fridge surfaces and leave harmful residues. Don’t use hot water, which can crack cold shelves, and avoid soaking electronic components or control panels to prevent damage.