How Do You Clean a Refrigerator? A Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh, Sparkling Fridge

Reduces Food Waste

A clean and organised refrigerator makes it easier to see what you have on hand, reducing the chances of items going unnoticed and expiring. This can help save money and cut down on food waste by reminding you to use perishable items before they spoil.



Better Food Organisation

A clean and organised fridge makes it easier to find items quickly, reducing food waste. It also helps you spot foods that need to be used before they spoil. Regular cleaning allows you to remove unnecessary items and make the most of your storage space so that you can store food more efficiently.



Increased Energy Efficiency

Dirt and dust buildup on the refrigerator coils can cause the appliance to work harder to cool, which consumes more energy. Regularly cleaning the coils can help improve energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills. Not to mention, a clean fridge functions more effectively, helping it stay at the right temperature to keep your food fresh.

Elimination of Unpleasant Odours

Regular cleaning prevents food spills and forgotten leftovers from creating foul odours. By keeping the fridge clean, you maintain a fresher, more pleasant smell. Cleaning with baking soda or other natural deodorising agents helps neutralise odours and keep your fridge smelling fresh.



Extended Appliance Lifespan

Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your refrigerator. By keeping it free from dust, mould, and grime, you can prevent costly repairs or premature breakdowns. In addition, cleaning areas like the coils and door seals prevent issues such as overworking the motor or malfunctioning seals, which can lead to cooling problems or higher repair costs.



Prevents Pest Infestations

Crumbs, spills, and decaying food can attract insects and rodents, creating an unhygienic environment and potentially causing health issues. These pests are drawn to food remnants, and if not cleaned regularly, they can quickly infest your kitchen and refrigerator.



Better Overall Kitchen Hygiene

A well-maintained fridge contributes to a cleaner kitchen overall, as food spills and mould can spread to other kitchen surfaces if not addressed promptly. Significantly, regularly cleaning your fridge also helps reduce the need for deep cleaning, making routine maintenance quick and easy.



How to Clean Your Refrigerator Properly

Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to properly clean your refrigerator for a fresh, organised, and odour-free result.



Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Gather your cleaning supplies beforehand to make sure you have everything you need. You’ll need the following tools and supplies to clean every corner efficiently and effectively.

• Dish soap or mild all-purpose cleaner
• Baking soda or white vinegar (natural cleaning solutions)
• Dry baking soda
• Warm water or hot water
• Damp microfiber cloth or sponge
• A toothbrush or small brush (for cleaning hard-to-reach spots)
• Trash bags (for expired or spoiled food)
• Spray bottle

If you’d prefer a more professional touch, consider hiring trusted professional cleaners in Newcastle. We will bring the right tools and supplies to tackle even the toughest cleaning tasks, including tidying up your refrigerator to keep it fresh and spotless.

Prepare Your Cleaning Solution

Prepare your cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap or a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 1 part hot water). This gentle solution helps remove dirt, grime, and odours without damaging the fridge’s surfaces. For easy application, transfer the mixture into a spray bottle so you can mist the solution evenly on shelves, drawers, and walls. This method also makes it easier to reach tight spaces and corners, allowing for a thorough clean without excess moisture.



Unplug the Refrigerator and Empty It

Take out all the food inside the fridge. This gives you space to clean and allows you to check for expired items that need to be thrown away. Put any perishable items in a cooler to keep them cold while you clean.



Remove Shelves and Drawers

Take out any removable shelves, trays, or drawers to give yourself clear access to the entire interior of the fridge. Carefully lift and slide out each piece, avoiding any rough handling, as some materials, like glass or plastic, can be fragile. If these parts are cold, allow them to come to room temperature before washing to prevent cracking or damage from sudden temperature changes.



However, if you have a stainless steel refrigerator, consider using a stainless steel cleaner to maintain its shine and prevent streaks. While you can use dish soap to clean the interiors, these specialised cleaners can provide a deeper clean, protect the surface, and create a protective layer that resists fingerprints and smudges. Be sure to wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches, and finish with a dry cloth to leave your refrigerator sparkling and streak-free.



Clean the Refrigerator Coils

Find the coils at the back or underneath the fridge. Dust and dirt can make the fridge work harder, so use a vacuum or brush to clean them. For hard-to-reach areas, a soft cloth or a small brush can help clear out any remaining debris. Regularly cleaning the coils every few months can significantly improve your fridge’s performance, keeping your energy bills down and helping your appliance last longer.



Clean the Door Seals

Wipe the rubber door seals with warm, soapy water or a vinegar solution to remove dirt, grime, and food particles that can accumulate over time. Pay close attention to the crevices, where debris can easily hide. After cleaning, thoroughly dry the seals with a clean cloth to prevent mould or mildew growth.



Deodorise the Fridge

Place a box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the fridge to absorb any bad smells and help maintain a fresh, neutral odour. These deodorisers trap moisture and fridge odors, keeping them from lingering in the air. For best results, place the box in a discreet location, such as the back corner of a shelf, where air circulation is good.

Reorganise and Restock the Fridge

After cleaning and deodorising, it's time to put everything back in the fridge. Make sure to group similar items. Prioritise food that needs to be used first and keep leftovers in clear containers so you can easily see what’s inside.



Final Touches

Wipe the outside of the fridge, including the door handles, to remove fingerprints and smudges. Double-check the inside to make sure it's fully dry and clean before you plug it back in. This will prevent any lingering moisture from creating odours and help keep your food fresh and hygienic.



Regular Maintenance

Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, constantly keeping your food fresh and safe. Regular maintenance is key to guarantee it runs efficiently, saves energy, and lasts longer. However, to keep your fridge in top shape, it's essential to maintain the cleanliness of your kitchen as a whole.



Takeaway

The secret to a smooth-running, healthy kitchen starts with a clean refrigerator. Maintaining a spotless, organised fridge becomes manageable with the simple steps in this guide, helping you save time, money and energy.

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