The refrigerator is where you store your food, and of course you don’t want your food sitting in someplace dirty. That logic tells us that you should have a clean fridge, but odds are you’re like many others and your refrigerator is a collection of strange smells and stains. If you want everything to stop mysteriously smelling like soy sauce, use our easy guide to get a clean refrigerator.

 

How to Clean a Refrigerator

 

The inside

 

Empty the Fridge

As you take out each item, check its expiration date. Have a trash can near you while you clean so when you see something that’s gone bad, you can toss it right out.

Shelves and Drawers

Once the fridge is completely empty, you are ready to clean. Using a soft sponge or cloth, wipe down the shelves and walls with a solution of water and mild dish soap. You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar. Take out any removable items for easier and more thorough cleaning.

Clean Refrigerator Note: If your refrigerator shelves are made of glass, it’s likely tempered glass and designed to withstand extreme temperature changes. However, it’s still smart to exercise caution and not use water that is too hot as it could cause the glass to shatter.

Once you’ve wiped everything down, you’re ready to dry and replace your food items.

Keep it Clean

It’s a good idea to put a box of fresh baking soda in the back of your fridge once you’ve finished. It’s great for absorbing odors!

 

The outside

 

Refrigerator Door

Use either of the mild cleaners mentioned above and a soft sponge to scrub the surface. Dry surface and apply polish if needed. For stainless steel, spray your appliance with vinegar using a spray bottle. Wipe the vinegar off in the direction of the grain with a soft cloth or paper towel. Caution: Be careful not to scrub your doors too hard as it might leave marks.

The Handles

Use a rag to wipe the backside of the handle and dry it to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.

Top of the Refrigerator

Remove any items before cleaning, then spray on an all-purpose cleaner and scrub. Dry the surface before putting anything back.

Bottom of the Refrigerator

Vacuum the grill at the bottom. If possible, remove it and wipe.

 

All-Over Clean Refrigerator

Getting a clean refrigerator is easy and once it’s done, you know your food is housed in a safe, healthy, clean environment. If your schedule doesn’t allow time for refrigerator maintenance, contact your local maid service and see if they can take care of this chore for you.