The longevity of the appliance and the safety of the food both heavily depend on maintaining a clean refrigerator. Unpleasant smells, dangerous bacteria, and spoiled food quality can all result from a dirty refrigerator. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your refrigerator properly so that it always stays efficient and hygienic.
Empty and sort the contents
Emptying your refrigerator entirely is the first step to cleaning it. First take out all the food items and containers. Use it as an opportunity to go through and organize the contents. Make sure to verify the expiration dates and discard any items that are spoiled or past its prime. To make it easier when you put the products back in the refrigerator, sort them by category such as dairy, veggies, meats. During the cleaning process, store perishables in a cooler with ice packs to keep them cold.
Tip: Make a list of everything that is in your refrigerator. It might simplify your grocery shopping and help you cut down on food waste.
Remove shelves and drawers
The majority of contemporary refrigerators have detachable drawers, shelves and door bins. Carefully remove and put them aside to clean. Glass shelves should be handled gently to prevent breaking. Removing these parts allows to thoroughly clean the refrigerator’s interior, ensuring that no dirt or bacteria are left behind.
Tip: If you don’t know how to remove a shelf or drawer, refer to your refrigerator user handbook for instructions.
Clean the interior
Now that the refrigerator is empty, it’s time to work on the interior. Mix warm water and a small amount of dish soap to make a cleaning solution. To prevent damaging the surfaces, stay away from using abrasive scrubbers or strong chemicals. Clean all internal surfaces, including the refrigerator’s walls, ceiling and floor, using a damp cloth or sponge dampened with the solution. Particular attention should be given to nooks and crannies where spills and crumbs may collect.
Tip: Allow the soapy mixture to remain for several minutes before carefully cleaning any tough stains or sticky areas. Combine equal parts water and white vinegar for a natural cleaning alternative.
Wash shelves, drawers and bins
Next, clean the removable shelves, drawers and door bins. You can generally wash them in the sink with the same mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Use a sponge or cloth to give them a thorough cleaning, making sure to get rid of any spills or food residue. Before putting them back in the refrigerator, give them a good rinse under cold running water and a complete drying with a fresh towel.
Tip: A more thorough cleaning can be achieved by running your shelves and drawers in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-compatible. Verify if they are dishwasher-safe by consulting the user handbook.
Return items and organize
Once the interior and removable components are clean and dry, you can put the items back in the refrigerator. Use a moist cloth to wipe out any jars, bottles or containers before putting them into the fridge to ensure that no dirt remains. Logically arrange the items, putting the ones you use more often at eye level and putting related items in groups. It not only facilitates finding items but also keeps the refrigerator organized and functional.
Tip: To keep the similar products together and make contents immediately identifiable, think about using clear storage boxes and labeling. This will keep your fridge organized and help you optimize the space.
By following these five steps, you can keep your refrigerator hygienic, efficient and bacteria-free. Maintaining your refrigerator regularly will increase its lifespan and make your kitchen healthier.
