8 Ways How to Clean Fridge (Pro Tips),  Effective and Simple Fridge Cleaning Guide

How to Clean Fridge (Pro Tips)

Cleaning your fridge may not be something that comes to mind every week, but it’s essential to do so regularly. A clean fridge helps preserve food, reduces odours, and ensures everything is running smoothly. In this article, we’ll walk you through 8 pro tips for how to clean your fridge—whether it’s a quick tidy-up or a deep clean.

Why Is Cleaning Your Fridge So Important?

Keeping your fridge clean isn’t just about aesthetics. Over time, food spills, crumbs, and the natural moisture from food can build up, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. By cleaning your fridge regularly, you reduce the risk of cross-contamination, eliminate odours, and extend the shelf life of your food.

Whether you’re a busy homeowner, tenant, or landlord, maintaining a clean fridge also improves energy efficiency. A fridge working in optimal condition uses less power, saving you money on your energy bills. Let’s dive into 8 expert tips to clean your fridge the right way.

1. Empty the Fridge Before You Start

Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to empty out the fridge. This step ensures you can access all corners and shelves. Use this time to check for expired food, items you no longer need, and anything that’s past its best-before date. Toss anything you won’t be using!

Quick Tip: Keep a Container for Expired Items

As you empty your fridge, consider setting up a small container or bag for expired food. This makes the process much quicker and stops you from wasting time sorting through the clutter later.

2. Remove and Wash Shelves and Drawers

Once your fridge is emptied, remove all shelves and drawers. Wash them with warm, soapy water, using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. For stubborn stains or residue, a mixture of water and baking soda can help. Let them dry completely before putting them back.

How to Clean Tough Stains

• Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water to create a cleaning solution.
• Soak a cloth in the mixture and gently scrub any stubborn stains or spills.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry the shelves before reattaching them.

3. Wipe Down the Interior with a Natural Cleaner

Next, it’s time to clean the interior of the fridge. Use a natural cleaner, like a vinegar and water solution (1:1 ratio), to wipe down the walls, door compartments, and drawers. Vinegar is an effective natural disinfectant and deodoriser.

Quick Tip: Avoid Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning food storage areas, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals. They may leave behind residues that can contaminate food. Stick to natural cleaners like vinegar or a mild dishwashing solution for the safest results.

4. Deodorise Your Fridge

Even if you’ve cleaned your fridge thoroughly, unpleasant smells can linger. One simple way to neutralise odours is to place an open box of baking soda on one of the shelves. Baking soda absorbs bad smells and keeps your fridge smelling fresh.

How to Use Baking Soda

• Open a small box of baking soda and place it on a middle shelf in the fridge.
• Replace the box every 3 months for continuous odour control.

5. Clean the Fridge Door Seals

The door seals are often overlooked but can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Clean them with a damp cloth, using a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Pay close attention to the crevices where dirt can hide. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub away stubborn grime.

Why Clean Door Seals?

Clean door seals are essential for maintaining the energy efficiency of your fridge. If the seals are dirty or damaged, the fridge may have to work harder to maintain its temperature, leading to higher energy consumption.

6. Clean the Fridge’s Condenser Coils

Condenser coils are located at the back or underneath the fridge. These coils help cool the fridge and can accumulate dust and debris over time. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean the coils. This helps maintain the fridge’s efficiency and prolong its lifespan.

Quick Tip: Check Coils Every 6 Months

It’s a good idea to clean your fridge’s condenser coils every 6 months. This can help prevent overheating and ensure your fridge runs efficiently.

7. Organise the Fridge After Cleaning

Once your fridge is clean, it’s time to put everything back. Make sure you organise the food to ensure optimal storage. Keep raw meats on the bottom shelf to avoid cross-contamination, and use transparent containers for easy visibility.

How to Maximise Fridge Space

• Use airtight containers for storing leftovers and dry goods.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of when items need to be used.
• Use fridge organisers or baskets to group similar items together.

8. Regular Maintenance

Cleaning your fridge once a month is ideal, but it’s also important to maintain a daily cleaning habit. Wipe up spills immediately, check expiration dates weekly, and keep the fridge clutter-free to ensure it stays clean and hygienic.

Quick Tip: Do a Quick Wipe Every Week

A quick weekly wipe-down of the shelves and a check for expired items can prevent the build-up of mess and help maintain a clean fridge with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I clean my fridge?

It’s best to deep clean your fridge once a month, but a quick weekly check for expired food and a wipe-down of shelves can help keep it in top shape.

2. Can I use bleach to clean my fridge?

It’s not recommended to use bleach inside your fridge, as it can leave behind harmful residues. Stick to natural cleaners like vinegar or a mild dish soap solution for best results.

3. How do I get rid of stubborn stains in my fridge?

For tough stains, use a mixture of baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge.

4. Why is my fridge still smelly after cleaning?

If your fridge still smells, check for hidden food debris or clean the condenser coils. Placing a box of baking soda inside can also help absorb lingering odours.

5. How do I clean my fridge without removing all the food?

If you’re short on time, focus on cleaning the shelves and drawers you can access easily. Wipe down areas that are exposed, and tackle deeper cleaning when you have more time to empty the fridge.

Need Help Cleaning Your Fridge? Contact Glohus Today!

If cleaning your fridge feels like a daunting task, let the professionals at Glohus Cleaning help. We offer a range of cleaning services, including fridge and appliance cleaning, to keep your home sparkling. Book a service with us today!

For more expert tips on cleaning and home maintenance, visit Better Homes & Gardens, a trusted source for home care advice.