How to Deep Clean the Inside of Your Refrigerator
Refrigerators accumulate spills, odours, and mould in ways that are hard to notice gradually — until they become obvious. A thorough deep clean every 3–4 months prevents odour buildup, keeps food safe, and makes the fridge more efficient (clean condenser coils and gaskets help the appliance run properly).
Preparation
- Choose a time when the fridge is relatively empty (day before grocery shopping)
- Prepare a cooler with ice to store perishables during cleaning
- Remove all food — check expiry dates and discard expired items now
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Remove and Wash Shelves and Drawers
- Remove all removable shelves, drawers, and bins
- Allow glass shelves to reach room temperature before washing — placing cold glass in hot water can crack it
- Wash in the sink with warm soapy water and a sponge
- For stuck-on spills: soak in warm soapy water for 15 minutes before scrubbing
- Dry completely before returning to the fridge
Step 2: Clean the Interior Walls and Ceiling
- Mix a cleaning solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda per 1 cup of warm water — this cleans and neutralizes odours without leaving a chemical smell that can transfer to food
- Wipe all interior surfaces (walls, ceiling, floor, shelf supports) with the baking soda solution and a cloth
- For stubborn spills: apply the solution and allow 5 minutes before wiping. A plastic scraper helps with hard dried spills without scratching.
- Follow with a wipe of plain water to remove baking soda residue
Step 3: Clean the Door Gasket
- Wipe the rubber door gasket with a cloth dampened with the baking soda solution
- Use a toothbrush or cotton swabs for the fold of the gasket, where mould commonly grows
- Inspect the gasket seal — a gasket that doesn't seal properly makes the fridge work harder and wastes energy. Test by closing the door on a piece of paper — if it slides out easily, the gasket may need replacing.
Step 4: Deodorize
- Place an open box of baking soda in the back of the fridge — replace every 3 months
- Activated charcoal fridge deodorizers are more effective than baking soda and last longer
Step 5: Clean the Exterior and Coils
- Wipe exterior surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner
- Vacuum the condenser coils (at the back or bottom of the fridge) — dusty coils reduce efficiency. Use a narrow vacuum attachment or a condenser coil brush.
- Clean the top of the fridge, which accumulates grease and dust
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