The Right Way to Clean Your Refrigerator — Step-by-Step
Keeping your refrigerator clean is essential for so many reason. You don’t want to open the refrigerator and smell foul odors, moldy food, spills or crumbs. Not only do any of those things make the food you’re about to eat less appealing, but it can also make you sick. In a coastal city like Port Hueneme, where fresh produce and seafood are part of everyday living, a clean refrigerator ensures your groceries stay fresher longer and your kitchen remains hygienic. But many homeowners avoid deep-cleaning their fridge because it feels overwhelming. The good news? With the right method, you can tackle this task in an organized way that makes it far less daunting.
Why Refrigerator Cleaning Matters
Over time, refrigerators collect spills, crumbs, and bacteria from raw foods. Mold and mildew can form in hidden corners, and unpleasant odors often stick around even after the spoiled item is removed. Cleaning not only prevents foodborne illness but also helps the appliance run more efficiently, saving you on energy bills in the long run.
Step 1: Prepare Your Supplies
Before you start, gather everything you need:
-
Baking soda or vinegar for deodorizing
-
A mild dish soap
-
Warm water
-
Microfiber cloths or sponges
-
A toothbrush or small scrub brush for hard-to-reach areas
-
Trash bags for expired food
Keeping supplies handy prevents frustration and keeps you from leaving the job half-done.
Step 2: Empty the Refrigerator
The only way to thoroughly clean your refrigerator is to remove everything. Sort items as you go, tossing anything expired, moldy, or questionable. Group items you’ll keep in a cooler with ice packs to maintain freshness during cleaning.
This step also allows you to see how much waste is accumulating, which can help you adjust shopping habits in the future.
Step 3: Remove Shelves and Drawers
Take out all removable parts — shelves, drawers, and trays. Wash them separately in warm soapy water. If they’re too large for the sink, use the bathtub or a large storage bin. Let them air dry completely before reinstalling to avoid trapping moisture inside your fridge.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior
Using a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, wipe down all surfaces inside the fridge. Pay special attention to seams, corners, and the areas under crisper drawers where spills collect. For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it, and let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing gently.
If odors linger, a vinegar-water mix works well to neutralize them without leaving a chemical scent.
Step 5: Clean the Gasket and Vents
The rubber gasket around the fridge door is one of the most overlooked areas. Dirt, crumbs, and mold often settle here. Use a toothbrush dipped in warm soapy water to gently scrub the folds of the gasket. Also, wipe down any vents inside the fridge to ensure proper airflow.
Step 6: Return Shelves and Food
Once everything is clean and dry, replace the shelves and drawers. Wipe down condiment jars and bottles before placing them back to avoid reintroducing sticky messes. Group items logically — dairy in one section, fruits and vegetables in drawers, condiments on the door. This helps prevent spills and keeps food organized.
Step 7: Exterior Cleaning
Don’t forget the outside of the fridge. Wipe down doors, handles, and the top surface where dust collects. If you have a stainless-steel model, use a stainless-safe cleaner or a microfiber cloth with vinegar for a streak-free shine.
For an extra boost in efficiency, carefully vacuum the condenser coils (usually at the back or bottom). Dust buildup here can strain the motor and increase energy consumption.
How Often Should You Clean?
-
Quick wipe-down: once a week
-
Deep clean: every 3–4 months
-
Coil cleaning: twice a year
By sticking to this schedule, your refrigerator will stay fresh and efficient.
When to Call in the Pros
Sometimes, a busy household in Port Hueneme might not have the time to take on a full deep clean. This is where a professional cleaning service in Port Hueneme can make all the difference. Marching Maids can help with not only fridge cleaning but also a complete kitchen refresh. If your fridge needs extra attention due to spills, mold, or odors, pairing the job with a deep cleaning service ensures the entire kitchen feels renewed.