Keep your refrigerator sparkling clean with these easy cleaning tips for routine care and deep cleaning.
The fridge is the kitchen’s workhorse, andthoroughly cleaninga refrigerator takes more than a quick weekly wipe-down.
Then move your food to a cooler, and you’re all set to tacklecleaning a refrigerator.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Pay special attention to the bottom of wire racks, which attract debris.
Clean inside your fridge with a mixture of one part baking soda and seven parts water.
Beware of commercial refrigerator cleaners, as their scent might transfer to food.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Work from top to bottom to prevent drips from landing on already-clean surfaces.
Wipe everything dry with a clean towel.
Fortunately, you cantackle foul refrigerator smellswithout harsh chemical cleaners.
Once your refrigerator is clean and deodorized, put everything back.
Now is also a good time todeclutter and organize your fridge.
Cleaning the Refrigerator Gasket
Pay special attention to the rubber gasket around thefridge door.
It needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain a tight seal.
Use warm water and liquid dish soap for everyday grime and a bleach-based cleaner if you find mold.
Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.
Then coat the seal with a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep it from drying out.
Cleaning the Refrigerator Exterior
Keep your refrigerator sparkling with a good exterior cleaning.
Remember to occasionally wipe down the top of the refrigerator, too.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
When the grime is a bit more stubborn, try rubbing alcohol.
Place a few drops of rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth and rub over the stains.
When cleaning stainless-steel appliances, always wipe with the grain.
Cleaning Refrigerator Coils
Before you begin, check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
If you could’t find it, look online.
No matter your make or model, the first step in cleaning refrigerator coils is always unplugging the refrigerator.
If yours are on the back of the refrigerator, carefullypull the refrigerator awayfrom the wall.
Use a coil brush to clean the coils carefully.
Vacuum or sweep up any debris and replace the grill before plugging the appliance back in.
Like refrigerator coils, you should consult the owner’s manual before cleaning.
Check the manual for your water dispenser and ice maker filter replacement schedule, too.
Replacing the filter as recommended will help keep the dispenser and ice maker in good working condition.
The water dispenser tray is prone to water spots and stains.
To clean it, wipe down the tray with a vinegar-based cleaner and dry it.
If the tray is removable, take it out and wash it in your sink.
Be sure to clean underneath the tray, too.
A soft toothbrush can help get in any nooks, crannies, and vents.
Instead, grab baking soda and mix one tablespoon into a quart of warm water.
Wipe down the moldy surface, then thoroughly wipe dry to remove excess moisture.
Cleaning a bit of mold from a spill or from a refrigerator sitting empty is pretty straightforward.
Usebaking soda and waterto wipe off jars, bottles, or cans with drips or crusty lids.
check that you use clean cloths and dry everything thoroughly before putting it back.
To make this task easier, clean refrigerator items as you use them in cooking and meal prep.
Take time once a week to throw out spoiled produce or leftovers lingering in the back of the fridge.
Check expiration dates on dairy products and condiments and toss out anything past its prime.
Removing these items prevents odors and sticky spills from returning to your clean refrigerator.
