4 Best Proven ways to clean a fridge

4 Best Proven ways to clean a fridge

How to Clean a Fridge safely and effectively 

How to clean a fridge is a main concern for all fridge owners and it’s important to keep it’s sparkling state and longevity. A clean and organized refrigerator not only ensures the freshness and safety of your food but also improves its overall efficiency of this appliance.

In this guide, we are going to provide you with detail instructions on how to effectively clean both the interior and exterior of your fridge. We will also share some pro tips to help you maintain a clean and odor-free refrigerator as we know you deserve all what’s best. Continue reading!

Gather Your Supplies

Gathering these supplies before you clean a fridge will definitely improve your cleaning experience positively. Here’s a list of items you may need:

  •  Trash can
  •  Microfiber cloths or sponges
  •  Baking soda (optional)
  • White vinegar (optional)
  •  All-purpose cleaner (optional)
  • Dish soap
  •  Warm water
  •  Spray bottle (optional)
  •  Toothpick (optional)

Having these supplies at hand will make your cleaning experience more efficient and effective.

Prep for Cleaning

Why not examine some preparatory steps before diving into the process of how to clean a fridge. Here are some important preparatory steps:

  • Unplug the fridge (if possible) or turn it to the lowest setting to conserve energy and prevent any accidents. Safety over everything.
  • Remove all food items from the refrigerator and place them in a cooler or on a counter with ice packs, especially perishable items that need to be kept cold. This is to effectively clean your fridge’s interior because if full of food, cleaning becomes less effective.

By following these steps, you will adequately clean a fridge and consequently preserve your food in a good and healthy condition.

Tackle the Interior

Banish Fridge Funk! Sparkling Clean a Fridge in Simple Steps

Now that you’re ready to clean a fridge, it’s high time you focus on the interior of the fridge:

  •  Start by removing all removable shelves, drawers and crisper bins. Wash them in warm, soapy water. For stubborn stains, you can add baking soda to the water. Rinse well and let it air dry completely.
  •  Wipe down the interior walls, ceiling and floor of the fridge with a solution of warm water and dish soap. For tougher grime, make a paste with baking soda and water. Use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to clean the surfaces thoroughly.
  • Pay special attention to crevices and tight spaces when you clean a fridge. Use a toothpick dipped in the cleaning solution to reach those hard-to-clean areas but avoid using sharp and worst of all metallic objects not to damage your fridge or get electrocuted.
  • Consider lining your shelves with washable mats. These mats will catch any spills or leaks, making cleanup easier and protecting the shelves from stains.
  • If you prefer a natural deodorizer, white vinegar in a spray bottle is a great option. Nevertheless , be very careful not to mix vinegar and bleach together, as the combination can create harmful fumes.
  • Also, absorb fridge odors by placing an open box of baking soda on a shelf. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize unpleasant smells.
  • It’s quite important to regularly check for and discard any spoiled or expired food items. Removing these items promptly will prevent them from contaminating other foods and causing unpleasant odors in your fridge.

By adequately following these steps, you will be sure that the interior of your fridge is sparkling clean like new and free from any lingering odors.

Clean the Exterior

Banish Fridge Funk! Sparkling Clean a Fridge in Simple Steps

Now that the interior is sparkling clean, let’s polish the exterior of your fridge:

  • Wipe down the exterior surfaces of the fridge with a damp microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner. Pay extra attention to the handles, as they are highly touched areas thus can harbor germs and dirt.
  •  Don’t forget to clean the top of the fridge as well. Dust and debris can accumulate in this often-neglected area. It took me months to figure out that the fridge’s top was to be cleaned as most often the interior and exterior is always where we are self centered during cleaning.

By cleaning the exterior of your fridge, you not only improve its appearance but also maintain a hygienic environment in your kitchen. A clean fridge obviously impacts your overall mode thus makes you happier and confident.

Tackling greasy spills and fruit stains

To clean a fridge can often feel like a daunting task, especially when faced with a variety of spills that require different approaches. For greasy spills, which are common from meats or oily leftovers, it’s crucial to tackle them with a degreasing agent. Start by removing any solid residues with a paper towel, then spray a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dish soap directly onto the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the grease before wiping it away with a microfiber cloth. For stubborn greasy spots, a baking soda paste can be applied to help lift the residue without scratching the surface.

Fruit stains, on the other hand, often require a different approach due to their acidic nature. Begin by blotting the stain with a dry cloth to absorb any excess liquid. Next, create a solution of equal parts vinegar and water, and apply it to the stain using a spray bottle. The acidity of the vinegar helps to neutralize the stain and prevent it from setting. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a damp cloth.

For persistent stains, a paste of baking soda and water can be gently scrubbed onto the area to lift the discoloration. Always ensure to dry the surface thoroughly to prevent any moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew.

Putting It Back Together

Banish Fridge Funk! Sparkling Clean a Fridge in Simple Steps

Once you have thoroughly cleaned both the interior and exterior of your fridge, it’s time to orderly put everything back together:

  •  Return the shelves, drawers and crisper bins to their respective places in the fridge. Make sure they are completely dry before placing them back.
  • Before placing any food containers back inside the fridge, wipe them down to ensure they are clean and free from any spills or residue.
  •  Finally, plug the fridge back in or turn it back to the desired temperature setting.

By following these steps outlined in this  guide on how to clean a fridge, you have all the chances on your side to safely and effectively clean a fridge and restored it to its optimal condition.

Banish Fridge Funk! Sparkling Clean a Fridge in Simple Steps

Cleaning routine for Home and commercial fridges

Establishing a regular cleaning routine for home fridges is essential to maintain hygiene and prolong the appliance’s lifespan. For a typical home fridge, it’s recommended to conduct a thorough cleaning every three to four months. Begin by removing all food items and storing perishables in a cooler to keep them fresh during the cleaning process.

Disassemble removable shelves and drawers, washing them with warm, soapy water to eliminate any lingering odors or bacteria. Wipe down the interior walls with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, which acts as a natural disinfectant. Pay special attention to the door seals, as they can harbor mold and grime. Finish by drying all surfaces thoroughly before reassembling and restocking the fridge.

Commercial fridges, on the other hand, require a more frequent and rigorous cleaning routine due to their high usage and strict health regulations. It’s advisable to clean these fridges weekly, if not daily, depending on the volume of food stored. Start by emptying the fridge and discarding any expired or spoiled items. Use a commercial-grade cleaner to sanitize all surfaces, ensuring that you adhere to any specific guidelines for food safety. Shelves and compartments should be removed and cleaned separately to prevent cross-contamination.

Additionally, inspect and clean the condenser coils regularly to maintain optimal cooling efficiency. By implementing a consistent cleaning schedule, businesses can ensure compliance with health standards and provide a safe environment for food storage.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q1: How frequently should I clean a fridge?

It is best advisable to clean a fridge at least once every three months. Nevertheless, if you notice any spills or stains, it’s best to clean them immediately to prevent further dirt and odor buildups.

Q2: Can I use bleach to clean a fridge?

While bleach is a powerful disinfectant, it is not advisable to clean a fridge with this abrasive chemical. Bleach can leave behind strong odors and may contaminate your food. Stick to mild dish soap, baking soda and vinegar for effective and safe cleaning. Safety should always be your main priority.

Q3: How do I remove stubborn stains from my fridge?

To clean a fridge adequately when it comes to stubborn stains, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or cloth. Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help lift tough stains without damaging the surfaces of your fridge and without  contaminating your food.

Q4: Can I use glass cleaner on the exterior of my fridge?

When you want to clean a fridge, it’s best to avoid using glass cleaner on the exterior of your fridge, especially if it has a stainless steel finish. Glass cleaners may contain chemicals that can damage the surface of your precious fridge. You should instead go in for an all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap that’s safer.

Q5: How to prevent odors in my fridge?

To prevent odors in your fridge, make sure to properly store your food in airtight containers. Moreso, regularly clean out any expired or spoiled food items. You can also place an open box of baking soda on a shelf to absorb any lingering odors.

By implementing these cleaning hacks and incorporating the FAQ answers into your cleaning routine, you can maintain a clean and fresh fridge that will keep your food safe, your kitchen organized and keeping you happy and healthy.

Don’t forget that a clean fridge is not only visually appealing but also essential for maintaining the freshness and safety of your food. By following the guides outlined in this best guide ever and implementing the pro tips, you can be sure that your fridge remains in top condition for years to come.

*Note: For more detailed information on how to clean a fridge and it’s maintenance, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional advice.

Sources

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