How to Deep Clean Your Refrigerator: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning a refrigerator can be a tedious task, but it is essential to maintain the hygiene and longevity of the appliance. This guide will walk you through the steps to deep clean your refrigerator and leave it looking and smelling fresh.

  1. Gather your supplies: You’ll need a bucket, cleaning cloths, a sponge or scrub brush, a cleaning solution, and a disinfectant spray. You can use a commercial refrigerator cleaner or make your own by mixing water and white vinegar.
  2. Start by emptying the refrigerator. Take out all of the food, drinks, and condiments, and place them on the counter.
  3. Make a cleaning plan. Decide which areas of the refrigerator you want to clean and in what order. This will help you stay organized and focused as you work.
  4. Begin by cleaning the interior of the refrigerator. Use a cleaning cloth and cleaning solution to wipe down the walls, shelves, and drawers. Pay extra attention to any stains or spills.
  5. Move on to the exterior of the refrigerator. Clean the door, handle, and exterior with a cleaning cloth and cleaning solution.
  6. Clean the coils. Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris that has accumulated on the coils. This will help your refrigerator run more efficiently.
  7. Clean the seals. Use a cleaning cloth and cleaning solution to clean the seals around the door. Make sure to remove any debris or food particles that may have accumulated.
  8. Once you’ve cleaned the interior and exterior of the refrigerator, let it air out for a few minutes before putting the food back in.
  9. Use a disinfectant spray to clean the door handles, exterior and other parts that might come in contact with your hands.

Tips:

  • Use natural cleaning solutions like white vinegar and baking soda to save money and be eco-friendly.
  • Clean the refrigerator on a regular basis to avoid build-up of grime and bacteria.
  • Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.
  • Clean the refrigerator coils and seals at least once a year.
  • Try to keep the temperature of the refrigerator between 37-40F to avoid bacteria growth.
  • Use baking soda to remove any unpleasant odors.

Note: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning solutions to ensure they are safe for your refrigerator and won’t cause any damage. If you are unsure if a solution is safe, test it on a small inconspicuous area of the refrigerator first.