How to Clean Fridge Without Turning It Off – 5 Safe & Easy Steps

Can You Clean a Fridge Without Turning It Off?

Yes — you absolutely can! Sometimes, switching off your fridge isn’t practical.

Maybe it’s built-in, loaded with perishable food, or you just don’t have time for a full unplug-clean-restart routine.

The good news? You can still clean it thoroughly and safely — without turning it off.

This quick guide walks you through exactly how to do it, with no mess, no melted food, and no electrical risks.

When Is It OK to Clean a Fridge While It's On?

• You’re doing a light to medium clean
• There are no electrical components being touched
• You plan to clean in short sections or shelves one at a time
• There are still cold or frozen items you don’t want to remove

What You’ll Need

Item	Use
Spray bottle with warm vinegar water	Natural disinfectant and deodoriser
Microfibre cloth	Gentle wiping, quick drying
Small bowl of warm soapy water	For sticky spots or drawers
Old toothbrush	Cleans seals and corners

How to Clean Your Fridge Without Turning It Off – Step by Step

1. Clean One Section at a Time

Don’t take everything out at once. Instead, work shelf-by-shelf or drawer-by-drawer. This keeps the cold air inside and reduces the risk of temperature drops.

2. Temporarily Move Food to Other Sections

Shift items from one shelf to another while you clean. Place meat, dairy, or leftovers in a cool bag if needed while you work quickly.

3. Spray and Wipe Down Surfaces

Use a vinegar-water mix to spray directly onto the surface. Wipe with a microfibre cloth. Avoid soaking areas to prevent drips near electrical parts.

4. Clean Seals and Edges with a Toothbrush

Dip the toothbrush in warm soapy water and scrub the rubber seals. These spots often trap grime and cause fridge odours if not maintained.

5. Wipe Dry Immediately

Use a dry cloth after each section. This keeps the fridge dry and cold, and prevents ice build-up or mildew.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning While Fridge Is On

• Never pour water directly into the fridge
• Don’t clean the compressor or fan area while plugged in
• Avoid using boiling water — use warm or room temperature

Optional: Clean the Drain Hole

While cleaning, don’t forget the fridge drain hole — a common source of smells and leaks. Learn more in our full guide: How to Clean Fridge Drain Hole.

Need a Professional Touch?

Too busy to scrub or worried about doing it wrong? Let Glohus Cleaning handle it. We offer affordable, eco-friendly fridge and kitchen cleaning across Hertfordshire — no unplugging required!

Check out our kitchen deep cleaning service and book your appointment in minutes.

Helpful External Resources

• Good Housekeeping – How to Clean Your Fridge
• Which? UK – Fridge Maintenance Guide

FAQs – Cleaning Your Fridge While It's Still Plugged In