Deep Cleaning a Refrigerator
A refrigerator deep clean is one of the most impactful cleaning tasks in an Ontario home — both for hygiene and, if you're moving out, for deposit recovery. The average refrigerator harbours bacteria from spills, cross-contamination between foods, and odours from forgotten items. A proper deep clean takes 45–60 minutes and makes an immediate difference.
What You'll Need
- Warm soapy water (dish soap)
- Baking soda paste (baking soda + water) for stubborn stains
- White vinegar in a spray bottle for deodorizing
- Microfibre cloths
- Old toothbrush for crevices and drawer tracks
Step-by-Step Method
- Empty and unplug (or set to off): Remove all food, place perishables in a cooler if you have one. Unplug or turn the fridge to its off setting to make working inside easier
- Remove all shelves and drawers: Most glass shelves and crisper drawers are removable. Allow glass shelves to reach room temperature before washing — sudden temperature changes can crack cold glass
- Wash shelves and drawers: Wash in warm soapy water. For built-up residue, a baking soda paste and a few minutes of dwell time loosens it without scratching
- Wipe interior walls and ceiling: Work top to bottom. Use a damp cloth with a little dish soap, then a clean damp cloth to rinse. Pay particular attention to the back wall (where drips collect) and the door seal
- Clean the door seal: The rubber gasket accumulates mould and debris. Use a toothbrush with warm soapy water to scrub the folds of the seal
- Deodorize: Spray the interior with white vinegar, let sit 2 minutes, wipe dry. This neutralizes odours
- Replace and restock: Dry all surfaces before replacing shelves. Plug back in and allow to reach temperature before restocking perishables
Exterior and Coils
Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. The condenser coils (typically at the back or bottom of the fridge) should be vacuumed annually — dust on coils forces the compressor to work harder and shortens fridge life.