A refrigerator is an essential component in a kitchen as it is used to store a variety of food items. Stains and food residues inside a fridge and on its surface must be immediately cleaned to keep germs away. Moreover, organising and cleaning a fridge makes your kitchen interiors look brighter and more spacious. In this article, we explain how to clean a fridge using simple DIY techniques.
See also: How to clean vacuum cleaner?
Step-by-step guide for cleaning a fridge
Plan for deep cleaning
Start emptying all the food items from the fridge. Some food items, such as dairy products, meat, etc., need to be stored separately in a cooler jug. Do not keep these items outside for a long period. Throw off the leftover or expired foods. Discard old containers and compost spoiled food materials.
Turn off the fridge
It is not advisable to keep the fridge doors open for long when it is running as it can lead to wastage of electricity. It is safe to turn off and unplug the fridge when cleaning it. Before starting the deep cleaning of a refrigerator, make sure to remove all the shelves (if removable). In case you cannot access the plug or are unable to move the fridge, turn off the circuit breaker that connects the refrigerator.
Organise cleaning materials
The materials required to clean a fridge include:
- Clean towel
- Dish sponge
- Hot water
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
There are different multi-purpose cleaners for refrigerators. However, products that are edible, such as baking soda and white vinegar, are widely preferred. These are also effective in absorbing odours.
Clean the removable parts
You can hand-wash the removable parts of a fridge, such as shelves and racks. Mix dish soap in warm water and wash all these items using a dish sponge. Make sure to rinse off these items thoroughly with water to avoid any traces of soap. Dry these items using a clean towel.
Now, make sure they are completely dry and are at room temperature as cracks may develop in sudden temperature changes.
Clean the fridge interiors
Mix two tablespoons of baking soda and a quart (around 950 ml) of hot water in a spray bottle. Start cleaning the refrigerator interiors from top to bottom. Clean the interiors, including fridge walls, non-removable shelves, and the inside of the refrigerator door. Use a toothbrush if there are cracks and crevices and stains. If the stains do not go easily, allow the mixture to remain for at least ten minutes.
Clean the fridge exteriors
Wipe off the fridge outer surface, using a cloth and cleaning solution or soap-water mixture. Clean the top of the fridge. Apply a suitable cleaner for stainless-steel surfaces. Use a suitable brush to remove dust on the condenser coils. Empty, clean, and dry the drip pan, and place it back. Vacuum cleaning using a hose attachment may work, especially around and under the fridge. Using a microfiber cloth, dry off the fridge.
Tips to remove smell from fridge
If the refrigerator emits an unpleasant smell, deodorise the interiors by keeping a jar of dry baking soda on a rimmed baking sheet with the door closed until the smell disappears. Alternatively, you can use fresh coffee grounds or activated charcoal to remove the odour. If these do not work, keep the fridge door empty and open overnight.
You can also sprinkle vanilla or orange extract on cotton balls and place in a shallow dish inside the refrigerator.
How to clean a stainless-steel fridge?
You can clean the outside surface of a stainless-steel refrigerator using a dish soap solution and a damp cloth.
Make sure the soap does not contain chlorine as it can damage the finish. Avoid using steel wool or any other abrasive scrubber pads.
Quick tips on fridge cleaning and maintenance
- Immediately wipe any spills and stains as they occur. Otherwise, it can get tougher to clean.
- Choose a toothpaste with a gentle abrasive and use it to remove tough stains.
- Always keep containers clean inside the fridge. Avoid any residue to remain on the outside.
- Keep vegetable bins odour-free by keeping a crumpled, brown piece of paper bag (grocery bag) for 48 hours. The paper will absorb the odour.
- To keep the refrigerator operating efficiently, keep it full or at least place a large bottle of water.
FAQs
How many times should you clean a fridge?
You must clean a fridge surface daily. However, you can plan to deep clean a refrigerator at least once in three months.
Should I clean my fridge?
It is important to clean a fridge regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
How do I deep clean my fridge?
Use a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda and hot water in a spray bottle to deep clean the fridge interiors.
What is the best natural way to clean a refrigerator?
Use baking soda and hot water solution or a cleaning solution to clean a refrigerator.
Does baking soda really work in a refrigerator?
Keep a box of baking soda in a refrigerator to remove unpleasant odour.
Can you spray a refrigerator with water?
Remove the food items, shelves and racks from the fridge interiors and clean the interiors using water or baking soda and water solution. Dry off the surface using a towel.
How do you clean a fridge daily?
Use a DIY baking soda and water solution to clean a refrigerator and its surface.
How long should I clean a fridge?
Deep cleaning of a refrigerator may take around 45 minutes to one hour.
When can I start my fridge after cleaning?
You can turn on the fridge after cleaning if you did not rotate the fridge, tilt it to its side, front, back or top. Otherwise, you must allow it to stand upright overnight or for at least a day.
Should I turn off a fridge before cleaning?
Switching off the refrigerator is essential to ensure safety and avoid wastage of electricity. Let the shelves reach room temperature.
Does vinegar clean fridge?
White vinegar can be used to clean a refrigerator. Mix vinegar and water in equal parts and use to solution to clean oil stains and grime on the fridge.
Does baking soda really work in refrigerator?
Yes. Baking soda can be effective in removing bad odours from your fridge.
How to clean the fridge with baking soda?
Mix baking soda in a small quantity of water. Prepare a dough-like mix and use it to clean tough stains on refrigerator surfaces.
Where should you put baking soda in the fridge?
You can place baking soda in a box and keep it inside the refrigerator. Placing baking soda in a shallow dish also helps in keeping ice free from odour. Sprinkle baking soda on crisper drawers and cover with paper towel.
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