Wondering how to clean your fridge properly? Your refrigerator works hard every day to keep your food fresh. However, bacteria, spills, and odours can build up fast. The good news is that learning to clean your fridge is easier than you think — and you probably already have everything you need at home.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Fridge
- Warm water
- White vinegar or mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Microfiber cloths or a soft sponge
- A dry towel
- A cooler (to store food while you clean)
Step 1: Empty the Fridge Completely
First, remove all food and place cold items in a cooler. This is also the perfect time to check expiry dates and throw out anything past its best. According to the FDA, refrigerators should be kept at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth — so a regular clean is essential for food safety.
Step 2: Remove Shelves and Drawers
Next, take out all removable shelves, drawers, and trays. Let glass shelves sit at room temperature for a few minutes before washing — sudden temperature changes can cause cracking. Then wash everything with warm soapy water, rinse well, and set aside to air dry.
Step 3: How to Clean Your Fridge Interior
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Then spray the inside walls, ceiling, and floor of your fridge and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. As a result, bacteria are eliminated without leaving harmful residues near your food.
Additionally, for stubborn sticky spots, make a paste from baking soda and water. Apply it directly, leave it for two to three minutes, then wipe away. It works every time.
Step 4: Clean Your Fridge Door Seals
Furthermore, don’t overlook the rubber gaskets around the door — they are a common hiding place for mold and grime. Use an old toothbrush dipped in vinegar solution to scrub along the grooves. Make sure to dry them thoroughly when you are done.
Step 5: Clean the Outside of the Fridge
Similarly, wipe down the exterior, including the top and the handles. For stainless steel fridges, wipe in the direction of the grain using a small amount of dish soap. Afterwards, buff dry with a clean cloth to avoid streaks and water marks.
Step 6: Put Everything Back in Order
Once everything is completely dry, reinsert the shelves and drawers. In addition, return your food in an organised way — dairy at the top, raw meats on the bottom shelf to prevent drips, and fruits and vegetables in the crisper drawers.
How Often Should You Clean Your Fridge?
Therefore, aim to clean your fridge thoroughly once a month, with a quick wipe-down each week. Regular maintenance prevents odour build-up and keeps bacteria away. As a result, your food stays fresher, safer, and tastier for longer.
Pro Tip: Keep Your Fridge Fresh Between Cleans
Finally, place an open box of baking soda in the back of your fridge to absorb odours. Replace it every 30 days for the best results. You can also line your crisper drawers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and keep your produce fresh for longer.
In conclusion, now that you know exactly how to clean your fridge, you can keep it spotless all year round. If you need a helping hand keeping your whole home sparkling, our professional cleaning team is always here to help!
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