How to Clean Fridge Outside – 7 Easy DIY Methods 2025

The inside of my fridge was spotless — but the outside? Fingerprints, streaks, and a dusty top I’d completely ignored. It hit me one morning while making tea… the fridge looked dirty, even though it was technically clean.

That’s when I decided to give it a proper refresh — no chemicals, just simple, natural products. I wanted to find the easiest way to get it gleaming again without using anything harsh around food or little hands.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to clean fridge outside using DIY-friendly methods that work on stainless steel, plastic, and more. No fuss. No fancy sprays. Just results.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Fridge Outside

Ready to make your fridge sparkle on the outside? Follow these simple DIY steps that I personally use at home. Whether you’ve got a stainless steel beauty or a classic painted fridge, this guide works for all types.

Once everything’s clean, dry all areas with a lint-free towel to avoid streaks — and stand back to admire that sparkling finish! You’ll be surprised how much cleaner your entire kitchen feels when the fridge exterior is spotless.

Quick Table: What to Use on Different Fridge Exterior Surfaces

Not all fridges are made the same — and using the wrong product on the wrong surface can leave streaks, scratches, or even discolouration. Here's a quick cheat sheet I put together based on trial (and a few errors!) to help you know what to use, and where:

Feel free to screenshot or bookmark this table — it’s my go-to fridge cleaning reference now whenever I need a quick reminder!

What You'll Need: Fridge Exterior Cleaning Essentials

Before you dive into the actual cleaning, it’s a good idea to get all your supplies ready. Thankfully, you won’t need any expensive or industrial products — just a few reliable household staples and a bit of elbow grease.

Here’s a list of things I personally used (and trust) when figuring out how to clean fridge outside the right way:

• Microfibre cloths – Essential for a streak-free finish without scratching the surface.
• Warm water and mild dish soap – Ideal for breaking down grease and food splashes without harsh chemicals.
• White vinegar – Natural, food-safe, and brilliant for stainless steel surfaces.
• Old toothbrush or small soft brush – Helps you reach into tricky grooves, corners, and around the door seals.
• Dry lint-free towel – Perfect for soaking up any leftover moisture and buffing to a shine.
• Olive oil or baby oil (optional) – A tiny dab on a clean cloth gives stainless steel that polished, showroom finish.

If your fridge is made from stainless steel, be gentle. Avoid scouring pads, bleach, or any overly acidic products (aside from diluted vinegar). And as always, test any cleaner on a small hidden spot before applying across the surface.

Tip: Keep one cloth strictly for fridge use — especially if you regularly cook. This helps avoid transferring grease or odours onto your fresh fridge door.

For more practical advice on eco-safe cleaning tools, you can also check this guide from Cleanipedia UK — they break down what works best for fridges and which products to avoid.

How to Polish the Fridge for a Like-New Look

Once you’ve finished cleaning the exterior, it’s time to bring back that original shine. Polishing not only makes your fridge look newer — it also helps repel future smudges and watermarks, especially on stainless steel finishes.

Here’s how I polish the outside of my fridge using safe, food-friendly products:

• Apply a few drops of olive oil or baby oil onto a clean, dry microfibre cloth.
• Gently buff the surface in the direction of the grain (for stainless steel).
• Use light pressure and avoid over-saturating — a little goes a long way.
• Finish with a dry lint-free cloth to absorb any excess oil and enhance the shine.

If you don’t have olive oil on hand, coconut oil or a dab of food-safe mineral oil works just as well. Just avoid anything scented or overly greasy — you want a smooth, subtle finish, not a slippery surface!

Want to go even deeper and clean every part of your fridge the right way? Check out our complete guide on how to clean your fridge — it covers everything from inside compartments to hidden mould traps most people miss.

Watch: How to Clean Fridge Outside – Step-by-Step Video

Prefer to follow along visually? I’ve put together a quick and easy video showing exactly how to clean fridge outside using the same DIY-friendly methods we’ve covered above.

In the video, you’ll see:

• What tools and products to prepare
• How to wipe, polish, and clean every surface safely
• Tips for stainless steel, handles, and tricky corners

It’s perfect if you’re more of a visual learner or just want to see the results in action. Scroll down and press play below — your fridge will be gleaming in no time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Fridge Outside

Even with the best intentions, a few wrong moves can leave your fridge scratched, streaky, or worse — damaged. Here are the most common mistakes I’ve seen (and made myself!) when learning how to clean fridge outside properly.

• Using abrasive sponges or scourers – These can scratch stainless steel or painted surfaces, leaving permanent marks.
• Spraying cleaner directly onto control panels – Always spray onto a cloth, not electronic parts. Moisture can seep into buttons or cracks.
• Skipping a dry polish – Leaving water or vinegar residue behind causes streaks and dull patches. Always dry with a clean cloth.
• Using bleach or harsh chemicals – These not only leave strong smells but can damage finishes and aren’t safe around food areas.
• Neglecting handles and rubber seals – These areas collect grime and bacteria quickly. A gentle brush and natural spray work best here.
• Wiping against the grain (on stainless steel) – This creates streaks and visible lines. Always clean with the grain for best results.

Stick to gentle methods and natural cleaners, and your fridge will thank you with years of shine — no damage, no regrets. Trust me, these small adjustments make a massive difference.

Pro Tips for a Spotless Fridge Exterior

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few clever tricks that take your fridge from simply clean to “did-you-just-buy-a-new-one?” level. These quick pro tips can save you time and give longer-lasting results — especially if you clean regularly.

• Clean after cooking, not before – Kitchen steam makes grease and dust cling to surfaces. Wait until the air’s settled.
• Use a dedicated fridge cloth – It avoids transferring oily residue from worktops or ovens to your fridge door.
• Always wipe with the grain – If your fridge is stainless steel, go with the grain for a streak-free finish that lasts.
• Add a reminder to your phone – A gentle wipe once a week prevents deep build-up and keeps your fridge looking fresh daily.
• Use natural polish alternatives – A few drops of olive oil can outperform most commercial sprays without the chemicals.

The key to a truly spotless look isn’t just knowing how to clean fridge outside — it’s about staying one step ahead of grime. A five-minute routine each week keeps it shiny, hygienic, and photo-ready.

So next time you spot fingerprints or dull patches, don’t panic. With the right habits and these pro tricks, you’ll never have to wonder how to clean fridge outside again — it’ll just be part of your kitchen flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Keeping your kitchen fresh doesn’t stop at the countertops — a sparkling fridge makes a big difference to the overall look and feel. By following these simple, natural steps, you’ll know exactly how to clean fridge outside without damaging the surface or using harsh chemicals.

Want to go even deeper? Let us handle the hard work for you. Book a professional kitchen or appliance clean with Glohus and enjoy the kind of spotless finish that makes everything feel brand new.