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Learn how often to clean a fridge & the best cleaning methods
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Your fridge is one of the largest appliances in your kitchen, but how often do you think about deep cleaning it? A clean fridge is more energy-efficient and will last longer, and while cleaning it may seem daunting, it’s not too hard if you properly care for it. For this article, we gathered the expert advice of several cleaning and appliance specialists to teach you everything you need to know about cleaning the inside and outside of a fridge, removing odors and mold, and preventing future messes.
Easiest Way to Clean a Fridge
Take out all food and removable shelves and drawers. Wash the shelves with soap and water and let them dry. Apply a mixture of 1 part baking soda and 7 parts hot water to the interior of the fridge and scrub with a sponge. Get hard-to-reach areas with a toothbrush. When dry, put everything back inside.
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Section 1 of 7:
How to Clean the Inside of a Refrigerator
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Unplug the refrigerator to save electricity. Thoroughly cleaning a refrigerator can sometimes take a few hours, and keeping the fridge open for long periods of time wastes electricity. Therefore, it’s often best to go ahead and unplug or turn off your refrigerator when you’re getting ready to deep clean it. [1] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Department of Energy Official site for the U.S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
- If you don’t want to unplug your fridge, try to keep the door shut whenever possible, like when you’re cleaning removable parts.
- For safety, unplug the fridge if you plan on cleaning the coils or drip pan.
- If it’s too difficult to access the plug, turn off the circuit breaker that serves the fridge.
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Empty the fridge completely. Clear some space on your counters or table to store your food and drinks, and fill a cooler with ice to store your perishable items. While you’re at it, check the expiration dates and dispose of anything that’s out of date. [2] X Research source- This is also a good time to get rid of any leftovers you aren’t going to finish.
- Do not leave food out for more than an hour.
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Hand wash any removable shelves and drawers in the sink. Most refrigerators have several shelves and drawers that can be taken out completely. Mix dish soap and warm water in a sink or basin, and wash each component the way you’d wash your dishes, making sure to scrub away any stubborn stains. Rinse them with clean water, then set them aside to dry completely while you clean the rest of the fridge. [3] X Research source
- If your shelves or drawers are made of glass, wait until they’re room temperature before washing them. Running cold glass under hot water could cause them to crack.
- If you’re not sure how to remove a component, refer to your fridge’s owner’s manual.
- It may help to take a photo of the inside of your fridge before removing the shelves so you know where everything goes when it’s time to replace them.
- If there are spills or food remnants that are harder to get off, let the shelf or drawer soak in the sink for a few minutes. It should come right off.
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Scrub the inside of the fridge with baking soda. Mix 1 part baking soda to 7 parts hot water, stir until the baking soda is dissolved, then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the entire interior of the fridge liberally, then scrub every surface with a sponge or microfiber cloth, working from top to bottom. This includes the walls, non-removable shelves, and the inside of the door. If the stains are stubborn, let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping away. [4] X Trustworthy Source Food Safety and Inspection Service of the USDA Food safety information provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Go to source
- Many people prefer to clean their fridge with baking soda because it absorbs odors.
- Another option is to use vinegar. Cleaning expert James Sears says to “Fill a spray bottle with 2/3 water and 1/3 distilled white vinegar. You can also use apple cider vinegar.” [5]
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Expert Source
James Sears
House Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 29 August 2019. - While it’s possible to clean a fridge with bleach, it’s only recommended for extremely tough odors or stains that cannot be removed otherwise. The fridge will then need to air out for several hours.
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Clean the gaskets and hard-to-reach areas with a toothbrush. Dip a toothbrush into the baking soda mixture and scrub any cracks and crevices you can’t reach with your sponge or cloth. Pay special attention to the rubber gasket around the fridge door, as well as the hinges and other hardware. [6] X Research source
- After wiping down the gaskets, rub a little vaseline or mineral oil along the rubber to condition it.
- Keeping the gasket clean helps your fridge door maintain a tight seal, which makes it more energy-efficient.
- While you're cleaning, look for any cracks or tears in the rubber, which can keep your fridge from maintaining a tight seal.
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Reinsert the shelves and restock the fridge. Once you’ve cleaned the interior of the refrigerator and the removable shelves and drawers have dried completely, place them back in their slots. Then, restock all of your food and drinks, wiping off any sticky containers before putting them back in the fridge. [7] X Research source
- Don’t forget to plug your fridge back in if you unplugged it!
- Organization specialist Ashley Moon suggests organizing your fridge when you restock it so you can easily find what you want. She organizes her own fridge by “having a one-stop shop for everything.” She recommends having different shelves dedicated to snacks, meals and meal prep, condiments, and miscellaneous items. [8]
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Expert Source
Ashley Moon, MA
Professional Organizer Expert Interview. 30 August 2019.
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Section 2 of 7:
How to Clean the Exterior of a Refrigerator
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Wipe down the outside of the fridge with warm, soapy water. Dip a cloth into a bowl or basin of warm water and dish soap. Proceed to wipe down the entire exterior of the fridge, including the doors, sides, and top. When you’re done, dry the refrigerator with a microfiber cloth or paper towels. [9] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Department of Energy Official site for the U.S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
- If your fridge is stainless steel, appliance repair technician Gevorg Grigorian recommends applying a stainless steel cleaner
to “get the optimal shine and cleanliness.” He adds that it’s possible to use other cleaning products like Windex, but “it might streak, or you might see smudges.” [10]
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Expert Source
Gevorg Grigorian
Appliance Repair Expert Expert Interview. 30 July 2020. Apply the cleaner with a microfiber cloth, as sponges can scratch the surface. - To remove tarnish from stainless steel, Sears says, “Use a lemon or lemon juice for its acidic properties to remove tarnish from stainless steel. Soak with water and lemon juice or rub with a lemon or lemon juice and a cloth.” [11]
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Expert Source
James Sears
House Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 29 August 2019. - To remove scratches from stainless steel
, Sears says, “You can use a household item, such as toothpaste, and apply and buff with the grain. If you buff against the grain, you will only make it worse.” [12]
X
Expert Source
James Sears
House Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- If your fridge is stainless steel, appliance repair technician Gevorg Grigorian recommends applying a stainless steel cleaner
to “get the optimal shine and cleanliness.” He adds that it’s possible to use other cleaning products like Windex, but “it might streak, or you might see smudges.” [10]
X
Expert Source
Gevorg Grigorian
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Empty, clean, and dry the drip pan. Unplug your fridge and use your owner’s manual to locate your drip pan. If it’s removable, follow the manual’s instructions to remove it, then scrub it clean with a mixture of 1 part white vinegar, 2 parts water. Leave the solution on for a few minutes, then scrub the dirt away, and rinse with clean water. Let the drip pan dry completely before reinstalling it. [13] X Research source
- A drip pan catches water as it comes out of the defrost drain. Drip pans are typically located at the bottom of the appliance, though their exact location varies depending on the refrigerator model.
- Always unplug your fridge before cleaning the drip pan to avoid getting electrocuted.
- If the drip pan is moldy or has an odor, allow the bleach solution to sit longer to remove stubborn mold and kill bacteria.
- If your drip pan isn’t removable, wipe it down with an antibacterial cleaning wipe and use a claw grabber to wipe dirt from the inside of the pan.
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Vacuum around and under the fridge. If you can, move your fridge away from the wall so you can clean behind and beneath it. Otherwise, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to vacuum around the floor where the fridge normally sits. [14] X Research source
- Sears recommends moving your fridge by “grabbing each side, and wiggling one side at a time towards you. Once the fridge has been moved, you can now vacuum and then swiffer or mop the floor. Let the floor fully dry before placing back the fridge.” [15]
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Expert Source
James Sears
House Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- Sears recommends moving your fridge by “grabbing each side, and wiggling one side at a time towards you. Once the fridge has been moved, you can now vacuum and then swiffer or mop the floor. Let the floor fully dry before placing back the fridge.” [15]
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Expert Source
James Sears
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Expert Q&A
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QuestionWhy does the front of the fridge get so dirty at the bottom?Aaron Beth is the founder of Aaron’s Refrigeration Company in New York City and a factory certified installer (FCI) for Sub-Zero products. He specializes in the service and maintenance of built-in refrigerators, wine coolers and ice machines. With over 54 years of experience, Aaron is the recipient of numerous Super-Service awards from Angie’s Lists and 2019 Best-of-the City.That's where the condenser is. What happens is that anything in front of your fridge ends up getting sucked into the grate there. It can get especially dirty for people who have pets.
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QuestionHow often do I need to clean my refrigerator coils?Aaron Beth is the founder of Aaron’s Refrigeration Company in New York City and a factory certified installer (FCI) for Sub-Zero products. He specializes in the service and maintenance of built-in refrigerators, wine coolers and ice machines. With over 54 years of experience, Aaron is the recipient of numerous Super-Service awards from Angie’s Lists and 2019 Best-of-the City.It depends on where you live, but the general rule of thumb is to do it twice a year. That's probably a safe estimate for most people.
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QuestionHow do I get the sticky marks, left by sticky labels, off my new fridge?This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.wikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerAny kind of oil (such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or baby oil) should break down the adhesive so you can wipe the residue off. Then, clean the area with a cloth dipped in soapy water.
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Tips
- Remember to wash your hands with warm, soapy water after cleaning your fridge. Wipe down any kitchen counters or tables that held your food or refrigerator parts, as well. [32] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to sourceThanks
- Check your fridge's user manual for tips on how to clean various parts and how often you should do so. If you don't have a paper copy, you can find a digital copy online! Just search for the manufacturer's website.Thanks
Tips from our Readers
The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
- Regularly inspect and clean the door seals to ensure they are debris-free and tight, which helps maintain efficiency.
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Warnings
- If food in your fridge spoils or is recalled, clean your fridge after you dispose of it. Germs could spread to other parts of your fridge and infect other food. [33] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to sourceThanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-energy-savers-project-cleaning-refrigerator-health-and-efficiency
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-get-rid-of-smells-in-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-get-rid-of-smells-in-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/emergencies/removing-odors-refrigerators-and
- ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clean-home/room-room/cleaning-refrigerator
- ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clean-home/room-room/cleaning-refrigerator
- ↑ Ashley Moon, MA. Professional Organizer. Expert Interview. 30 August 2019.
- ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-energy-savers-project-cleaning-refrigerator-health-and-efficiency
- ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview. 30 July 2020.
- ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-clean-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-under-appliances-weekend-projects-259408
- ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 29 August 2019.
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-get-rid-of-smells-in-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/refrigeration#12
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-refrigerator-coils/
- ↑ Aaron Beth. Appliance Technician. Expert Interview. 14 July 2020.
- ↑ https://www.beyondtoxics.org/wp-content/uploads/GreatNaturalMoldCleaners-Instead-of-Bleach.pdf
- ↑ James Sears. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 28 August 2019.
- ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clean-home/room-room/cleaning-refrigerator
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-get-rid-of-smells-in-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clean-home/room-room/cleaning-refrigerator
- ↑ Susan Stocker. Professional Cleaner. Expert Interview. 28 February 2023.
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-organise-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-organise-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/kitchen-cleaning/how-to-clean-a-fridge.html
- ↑ https://www.samsung.com/africa_en/support/home-appliances/recommended-way-to-remove-sticker-residue-from-a-refrigerator/
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/communication-resources/clean-refrigerator-steps.html
- ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-clean-water-dispenser-fridge.htm
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/communication-resources/clean-refrigerator-steps.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/communication-resources/clean-refrigerator-steps.html
About This Article
Article Summary
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To clean your refrigerator, first take everything out of it and store it in the freezer or a cooler filled with ice packs. Then, pull out any removable drawers and shelves, and scrub them clean using a sponge and hot, soapy water. Scrape off stubborn grime with a wooden spatula or toothpick. Rinse the shelves and drawers and let them air dry. Next, fill a spray bottle with 2 parts water and 1 part white vinegar, and spray the inside of your fridge. Wipe down the interior with a cloth, then use a new cloth to wipe the vinegar away. Finally, place any drawers and shelves back in the fridge and restock all of the food. To keep your newly-cleaned fridge smelling fresh, leave an open container of baking soda in it, which will absorb bad odors. To learn more about how to clean the interior parts of your fridge, like the coils and fan, keep reading!
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- "This article has really helped me because I have never used a refrigerator before, so I did not know how to clean the inside and outside the refrigerator. I also learned the functions of some parts of refrigeration and many more on efficiency." ..." more
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"This article has really helped me because I have never used a refrigerator before, so I did not know how to clean the inside and outside the refrigerator. I also learned the functions of some parts of refrigeration and many more on efficiency."
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"I clean my brand new fridge, or, for that matter, anything brand new. But most people don't. I got a new fridge and wanted to know if there were different ways to clean. I use lemon water usually. Today got some other good tips, too. Thanks."
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"I wanted to clean my fridge without using any chemicals, so this was very helpful. Also, the instructions were very clear (I enjoyed reading the humorous ones!), and the pictures and tips were also very helpful. Thank you."
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"I was checking for my daughter, and got the surprise that we need to clean at least every 3 months, which I don't think I had done before, but now I will do it. Thanks for this article."
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