A clean and hygienic kitchen is knowing how to clean a fridge properly!

It doesn’t take much to keep your refrigerator fresh and odour-free, allowing your food to stay in prime condition.

This guide walks you through a few easy steps to clean the fridge correctly. We’ll cover everything from what you’ll need and how to use it.

Following these tips and tricks from our expert local end of tenancy cleaners in Bromley, you can keep your refrigerator in excellent shape. So, let’s get started on this cleaning adventure!

Preparing for Cleaning

Before you roll up your sleeves, let’s take a look at these initial steps to ensure an efficient cleaning process:

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

To clean up your refrigerator, gather the necessary supplies:

  • Warm water
  • Mild dish soap
  • Clean sponge or cloth
  • A bucket
  • Baking soda
  • Soft brush or toothbrush (for hard-to-reach areas)

Step 2: Empty and Organise the Fridge’s Contents

Set aside your cleaning supplies, and grab a small table or empty a space near your refrigerator, as you’ll need it for the following:

  1. Take the fridge’s items out, one shelf at a time.
  2. Sort them on your counter or table into categories.
  3. Dispose of any expired or spoiled items.

Step 3: Unplugging the Fridge

Before cleaning, check if you need to unplug the fridge for safety.

If you prefer to unplug it, you’ll need to wait at least 15 minutes after everything is dry before plugging it back in to avoid damaging your fridge.

Remember to keep any food that can quickly spoil in thermal bags.

Cleaning the Interior of a Refrigerator

Ready to clean your refrigerator’s interior? Let’s dive into the easy step-by-step process of how to do it:

Step 1: Remove and Clean the Shelves and Drawers

Here’s how to give your shelves and drawers a good cleaning:

  1. Take them out from your refrigerator carefully.
  2. Head to your sink or bathtub and fill it with warm, soapy water.
  3. Place the shelves and drawers in the water, soaking them for a few minutes.
  4. Grab a soft sponge or cloth and gently scrub the surfaces to remove dirt or stains.
  5. Rinse the shelves and drawers thoroughly and set them aside to air dry.
  6. Once dry, replace the shelves and drawers in the fridge.

Step 2: Wipe Down Interior Walls and Surfaces

While waiting for the shelves and drawers to air dry, it’s time to take care of the interior of your fridge:

  1. Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket or basin.
  2. Dip a sponge or cloth into the mixture and gently wipe down the walls, shelves, and the back of the fridge.
  3. Pay extra attention to any spills or stains, and also clean the areas around the door seals and the corners.

Step 3: Clean the Door Gaskets

It’s also essential to clean up the door gaskets of your fridge by doing the following:

  1. Wipe the gaskets around the fridge door with a damp sponge dipped in mild soapy water. Pay attention to any food debris that might be stuck in its crevices.
  2. If you encounter any stubborn stains or dirt, use a soft brush to loosen and remove the dirt.

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Step 4. Clean the Freezer Compartment

Once you’ve removed all items from your freezer, you’ll have access to clean it without any obstructions:

  1. Defrost if necessary. If there’s ice buildup, wait for the ice to melt before cleaning.
  2. Once the ice has melted, grab a damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the walls and shelves of the freezer.
  3. If your freezer has separate ice trays, wash them with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry.

How to Clean the Exterior of a Refrigerator

Now that you’ve taken care of the interior of your refrigerator, it’s time to focus on the exterior!

Step 1. Wipe Down The Exterior Surfaces

While keeping your fridge’s interior is vital, the exterior is no less important. Here’s how to scrub it down:

  1. Start by dipping a cloth or sponge into the soapy water and wring out any excess liquid. Ensure it’s damp and not dripping.
  2. Use the cloth to gently wipe your refrigerator’s sides, front, and top.
  3. Next, pay extra attention to the areas around the handles and the control panel, as these accumulate more dirt and grime.
  4. Use a toothbrush to clean the crevices.
  5. Rinse the cloth in clean water and wipe all fridge areas to remove any soap residue.
  6. Then, repeat them using a clean, dry cloth to ensure they’re completely dry.

Step 2. Polishing Stainless Steel Surfaces

If your fridge has stainless steel surfaces, follow these steps to keep them shining:

  1. Prepare a stainless steel cleaner, a mixture of water, vinegar, and a soft cloth.
  2. Apply a small amount of the cleaner on the soft cloth. On the other hand, if you’re using the vinegar and water mixture, mix equal parts in a spray bottle.
  3. Gently wipe the stainless steel surfaces of your fridge using a soft cloth. Alternatively, spray the areas with the mixture.
  4. Wipe toward the grains to prevent scratching and maintain their polished appearance.
  5. Once you’ve cleaned all stainless steel surfaces, use a dry cloth and wipe them again to remove any excess moisture.

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Maintenance Tips for a Clean Fridge

To maintain the cleanliness and freshness of your refrigerator, keep the tips below in mind:

  1. Regularly check for expired or spoiled food and immediately dispose of them.
  2. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains and odours. Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild dish soap, and dry the area thoroughly.
  3. Use refrigerator liners or mats to contain spills. These liners are effective at catching drips and leaks, which makes cleaning easier and reduces the need for deep cleaning.
  4. Keep an open box of baking soda in your fridge to absorb odours and replace it every few months.
  5. Regularly deep clean and defrost your fridge, inside and out. Check the manual for any extra instructions.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing the: How to clean your fridge guide! By following these steps, you have achieved a clean and organised fridge and created a healthier and more efficient one for your food.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your refrigerator clean. Take a few minutes now and then to check for expired items, wipe up spills, and ensure proper organisation.

These simple habits will go a long way in maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of your fridge.