How to Deep Clean Your Fridge and Keep It Fresh and Odor-Free

How to Deep Clean Your Fridge and Keep It Fresh and Odor-Free

A fridge clean-out will help keep those unpleasant odors away.

Leftovers, leaky containers, and expired food can create more than just a funky smell in your fridge—they can lead to mold, bacteria, and stubborn stains. A clean refrigerator isn’t just better for your health; it also helps food stay fresher longer, reducing waste. To help you tackle the job with confidence, we spoke with cleaning experts for their best tips and a simple, step-by-step guide to cleaning your fridge like a pro.

Considerations Before You Get Started

Similar to cleaning other appliances or surfaces in your home, there are a few things you should consider before you begin. Taking these precautions can prevent damage to your fridge and reduce the risk of food spoiling:

• Don't leave food out too long: When cleaning out your fridge, be mindful of how long it takes you to do the job. According to the USDA, perishable food should not be left out for more than two hours at room temperature and only one hour if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Avoid harsh abrasive chemicals and products: Some cleaning products and materials that are too abrasive can cause damage to surfaces and gaskets. Stick with gentle cleaning products, sponges, and cloths when cleaning out your fridge. 
• Test spot cleaning products for stains or contact the manufacturer: If you are trying a new product or method to clean your fridge or remove stains, make sure to try it out in one spot first rather than the entire surface to ensure it's safe to use. You can also contact the manufacturer to make certain you use the correct products and methods for your brand of fridge.

How Often to Clean Your Fridge

Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, suggests cleaning out your fridge at least every three to six months. However, how often you should clean it can depend on many factors. "If your kitchen is a busy place and everyone is always grabbing snacks, then you should clean it more often," she says.

Or, if you store lots of perishable or spill-prone items in the fridge, she recommends cleaning it even more often. "Just don't set the temperature too low, or you'll end up with an icy fridge," she says. "But really, it's up to you to decide how often to clean based on your preference. If you hate mess and bad smells, then clean more often."

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Sponge
• Microfiber Cloth
• Toothbrush
• Gloves

Materials

• Multi-Purpose Cleaner
• Dish Soap
• Baking Soda (Optional)
• Vinegar (Optional)
• Lemon Juice (Optional)

Instructions

How to Clean a Refrigerator

1. Gather Supplies

Gather all of your cleaning supplies, including all-purpose cleaner, a sponge, a microfiber cloth, and gloves, and a toothbrush.

2. Toss Out Expired Food

Wilson says to take everything out and decide what to toss and keep. Toss out anything that's gone bad or looks iffy. Don't forget to check the expiration dates on your condiments too.

3. Remove Slides and Drawers and Clean

Many fridge models have removable sliding trays, shelves, and drawers. Wilson says you should remove the slides, drawers, and ice maker box and use a sponge to scrub them with dish soap and warm water.

4. Deep Clean Inside the Fridge

Thoroughly spray the fridge with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe down with a lint-free cloth. Pay special attention to stains or dried food that may be stuck to the interior.

Wilson says you can also use a mix of vinegar or lemon juice with a bit of dish soap as a cleaning solution if you prefer. Just make sure to leave the fridge open for a while after cleaning to let it air out. But be mindful of how long you leave food out.

5. Clean the Gasket and Seals

"The rubber gasket around the door should also be cleaned because it can trap odors," says Wilson. "An old toothbrush can help clean the nooks and crannies of the fridge, as well as the rubber gasket. Unlike the other parts, a wipe-down with a damp microfiber cloth is all you need for the seals."

6. Dry Thoroughly

After cleaning, use a towel to wipe everything dry. This will reduce the risk of excess moisture and help prevent bacteria and mold growth.

7. Put Food Away

Don't forget to put whatever food you have left back into the fridge before it spoils. Check the bottoms of containers to ensure there is no liquid from leaks or spills from before you cleaned out your fridge.

How to Clean Fridge Stains 

An all-purpose cleaner or a simple DIY cleaning solution should do the trick for most fridge stains. A solution of equal parts of warm water and white vinegar can be effective at removing tough yellow stains from surfaces. However, Wilson cautions against using this solution to clean rubber gaskets and plastic parts because vinegar is acidic and can make them brittle.

Remember to always do a spot test when using various products to ensure they don't cause any damage to the surface you're cleaning.

Tips to Keep Your Fridge Fresh Longer

Now that you know how to clean your fridge like a pro, use these tips to keep it tidy and fresh longer.

• Deodorize with baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs odors and keeps your fridge scent-free. 
• Store food properly: Wilson says to use airtight containers for leftovers and items like onions or garlic to prevent odors from spreading. Vacuum-sealing your food can also help it last longer and prevent freezer burn. 
• Wipe up spills immediately: If you notice spills or leaks from containers, make sure to wipe them up right away. This can prevent bacteria from growing and stains from setting in.
• Clear out food regularly: We are all guilty of leaving leftovers in the fridge for far too long. Make sure to toss food out if it is spoiled, and check expiration dates of items to prevent them from stinking up your fridge.