How to Clean Fridge Shelves and Drawers – 5 Proven Ways That Work

Why It’s Important to Clean Fridge Shelves and Drawers Regularly

Fridge shelves and drawers are where your food lives — but they also collect crumbs, spills, sticky stains, and sometimes even mould. Over time, this build-up can cause cross-contamination, nasty smells, and even bacteria growth. That’s why regular cleaning isn’t just about appearances — it’s essential for food safety and fridge hygiene.

According to the Food Standards Agency, keeping your fridge clean and at the right temperature is vital to avoid harmful bacteria and spoilage.

How Often Should You Clean Shelves and Drawers?

You should give your shelves and drawers a quick wipe weekly, and a deeper clean at least once a month — or immediately after any spills or leaks. It’s also good practice to clean them before restocking groceries.

What You’ll Need

Item	Use
Warm soapy water	Gentle cleaning for everyday grime
White vinegar	Natural disinfectant and deodoriser
Baking soda paste	Great for sticky spills and stains
Microfibre cloth	Non-abrasive and streak-free drying

5 Proven Ways to Clean Fridge Shelves and Drawers

1. Remove and Soak in Warm Soapy Water

Always unplug your fridge before starting. Carefully remove all shelves and drawers, and soak them in a sink filled with warm water and washing-up liquid. Let them sit for 15–30 minutes while you clean the rest of the fridge interior.

2. Scrub Sticky Areas with Baking Soda

Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply it to sticky spills or stained areas and gently scrub with a sponge. This lifts dried sauces and residue without scratching surfaces.

3. Disinfect with Vinegar Spray

After rinsing the shelves, spray them down with white vinegar to kill any bacteria and remove lingering smells. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe dry with a clean cloth.

4. Don’t Forget Drawer Tracks and Supports

Even if the drawers look clean, gunk can build up where they slide in and out. Use an old toothbrush or a microfibre cloth dipped in vinegar to clean these hidden areas.

5. Dry Completely Before Replacing

Let everything air dry fully or wipe down with a clean microfibre towel. Moisture invites mould and can damage plastic over time.

Bonus Tip: Add a Deodoriser

After cleaning, place an open box of baking soda in the fridge to keep smells away. Replace it monthly for best results.

Also Clean the Drain Hole

Smells or moisture issues often come from a blocked drain hole at the back of the fridge. Learn how to fix it with our guide: How to Clean Fridge Full Guide.

Need a Helping Hand?

At Glohus, we offer expert fridge and kitchen deep cleaning services for homes across Hertfordshire. Whether you’re moving out, spring cleaning, or just too busy — we’ve got your fridge covered.

Check out our kitchen cleaning service to book a hassle-free clean today.

Trusted External Resources

• Which? – Fridge and Freezer Maintenance Guide
• Good Housekeeping UK – Fridge Cleaning Tips

FAQs – Cleaning Fridge Drawers & Shelves