Want to clean your fridge but don’t know how to get started? Then it’s time to learn how to clean a fridge.
In this article, we provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean a fridge, along with helpful tips and tricks to keep it sparkling clean.
From using simple household items like baking soda and vinegar to organising spices, we’ve got you covered. Let’s start reviewing how to clean a fridge to make it look even shinier!
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean AFridge
Cleaning your fridge involves a detailed step-by-step process that ensures both the interior and exterior, including shelves and drawers, are thoroughly cleaned and maintained. Here’s more on how to clean a fridge.
a. Empty and Unplug the Fridge
The first step in cleaning your fridge is to empty all its contents and unplug it to ensure safety during the cleaning process.
When removing the food items, make sure to dispose of any perishable items that have gone off to avoid any unpleasant odours lingering in the fridge. For items that are still good, you can consider keeping them in a cool box with ice packs.
Once the fridge is empty, take out any removable shelves and drawers for a more thorough cleaning. Use a solution of mild soap and water to wipe down all interior surfaces, including the walls and door seals, to remove any spills or stains.
b. Remove Shelves and Drawers
Next, carefully remove the shelves and drawers from your fridge for easier and more thorough cleaning.
When removing the shelves and drawers, handle them cautiously to avoid any damage. Start by taking out all food items and placing them in a cool box to keep them fresh.
Once the shelves and drawers are out, wash them with warm, soapy water. If they have tough stains, let them soak for a while before scrubbing. Remember to dry them completely before putting them back in the fridge.
For an even more efficient cleaning process, consider using your dishwasher if these components are dishwasher-safe.
c. Clean the Interior of the Fridge
To clean the interior of your fridge, use a solution of warm water and mild detergent to wipe down all surfaces.
When cleaning, pay special attention to the seals around the door to ensure they are free of debris and mould. Organise the shelves and drawers, discarding any expired or spoiled items.
To disinfect, create a mixture of water and vinegar in equal parts and use a cloth soaked in this solution to wipe down high-touch areas such as the door handle and control panel. Keeping a box of bicarbonate of soda in the fridge helps absorb odours and freshen the air inside.
d. Clean the Shelves and Drawers
Clean the shelves and drawers with washing-up liquid and warm water to remove any stains or spills.
After applying the washing-up liquid and warm water solution, use a sponge or cleaning cloth to scrub the surfaces thoroughly, paying special attention to corners and crevices where dirt may accumulate.
Rinse the shelves and drawers with clean water to ensure all soap residue is removed. Next, wipe them dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots or streaks from forming.
e. Clean the Exterior of the Fridge
To clean the exterior of the fridge, use a microfibre cloth and a surface-safe cleaner, especially if it’s made of stainless steel.
For stainless steel, wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks, and use a stainless steel cleaner specifically formulated for this surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that can scratch the finish.
If fingerprints are a common issue, keep a small spray bottle with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water handy for quick touch-ups. Simply spray the solution on the cloth and wipe down the surface, following up with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
f. Clean the Door Seals
Cleaning the door seals, or gasket can be done effectively with a toothbrush and a mild cleaning solution to ensure they remain flexible and effective.
Door seals play a crucial role in maintaining an airtight seal, preventing cold air from escaping and keeping your appliance running efficiently. Neglecting their cleaning can lead to mould buildup, affecting the seal’s performance.
To tackle this, experts recommend a simple cleaning routine. Start by mixing a solution of warm water and a gentle detergent. Dip the toothbrush into the solution and scrub along the seals, focusing on any crevices where dirt accumulates. Rinse with a damp cloth, ensuring no residue is left behind.
Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Fridge Clean
Besides knowing the step-by-step how to clean a fridge, here are some tips you can apply to manage spills, prevent odours, and ensure food safety.
a. Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odours
Placing an open box of bicarbonate of soda in your fridge can help absorb and neutralise unpleasant odours.
Bicarbonate of soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, works by chemically reacting with the odours to neutralise them, rather than just masking them. The porous texture of bicarbonate of soda allows it to attract and trap odour molecules effectively. Over time, as the bicarbonate of soda absorbs odours, it can become less effective.
It is recommended to replace the box of bicarbonate of soda in your fridge every 1 to 3 months, depending on how strong or frequent the odours are. A simple way to remember is to mark the date when you put the bicarbonate of soda in your calendar and replace it accordingly. This will ensure that it continues to effectively absorb odours and keep your fridge smelling fresh.
b. Keep a Box of Baking Soda in Your Fridge
For ongoing odour control, maintain a box of bicarbonate of soda in your fridge, replacing it every few months.
Keeping bicarbonate of soda in the fridge offers multiple benefits beyond just odour control. Not only does it help absorb and eliminate unwanted smells, but it also aids in regulating the overall temperature within the fridge, keeping your food fresher for longer periods. The alkaline nature of the bicarbonate of soda can help neutralise any acidic compounds in the fridge, further extending the shelf life of your groceries.
To ensure its effectiveness, it is advisable to check the bicarbonate of soda every month for any clumping or caking and replace it every three months to maintain its potency.
c. Wipe Up Spills Immediately
To prevent stains and bacteria growth, wipe up any spills in your fridge immediately using a damp cloth.
Immediate spill clean-up is crucial in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of your fridge. Spills, if left unattended, can lead to unpleasant odours, mould growth, and harmful bacteria. By wiping up spills promptly, you not only prevent these issues but also extend the lifespan of your refrigerator.
When wiping spills, ensure the cloth is damp, not wet, to avoid excess moisture seeping into the appliance. Use gentle pressure to lift the spill without spreading it further. Once wiped, dry the area thoroughly to prevent any residual moisture from causing damage.
d. Regularly Check for Expired Food
Regularly checking for and removing expired food from your fridge helps maintain cleanliness and food safety.
By staying vigilant about the expiry dates of the items in your fridge, you can ensure that you are consuming food that is fresh and safe to eat. This practice not only reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses but also prevents the wastage of food and money. Additionally, regular monitoring of food expiry dates allows you to keep track of your inventory effectively, helping you plan your meals better and avoid the temptation of consuming expired products.
That’s a step-by-step explanation of how to clean a fridge complete with some useful tips that you can apply to maintain its cleanliness. However, maintaining this level of cleanliness consistently can be challenging and time-consuming, especially in busy households or commercial kitchens.
For thorough and regular fridge cleaning, consider using TEKA Cleaning’s residential cleaning or commercial cleaning services. Our professional team has the expertise and specialised equipment to ensure your fridge and other kitchen appliances are spotless and hygienic. By entrusting the task to professionals, you can save time and ensure a higher standard of cleanliness.
Choosing TEKA Cleaning means you don’t have to worry about hidden dirt or lingering odours. We provide a deep cleaning service that reaches every corner, ensuring a higher standard of cleanliness and helping to prolong the life of your appliances. Our reliable and efficient services are tailored to meet your specific needs, whether at home or in a commercial setting.
Ensure your fridge remains in optimal condition and your environment stays hygienic. Contact TEKA Cleaning today to schedule your residential or commercial cleaning service and experience the benefits of professional cleaning.
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