How many times have you gone through the refrigerator to find food that’s been hiding in the crisper or a stainless steel container for weeks, or even worse, months? This is common when you neglect to clean and organize your refrigerator regularly. Ideally, you should make it a habit to inspect your fridge before each weekly grocery shopping trip, discarding old leftovers and any questionable fresh produce. This practice ensures that you don’t end up buying items that you already have in your fridge. Additionally, for cleaning, a monthly routine is advisable to prevent spills and residue from causing unpleasant odors in your refrigerator. So, here are some guidelines to help you keep your refrigerator clean and organized.

How To Clean Refrigerator?

Time needed: 1 hour

Note- Always switch off the refrigerator before you start cleaning.

Discard Old Food
The first step to cleaning refrigerator is taking out all food items stored in it. This would be a good time to discard old pieces of lemon and ginger languishing in the refrigerator door balcony, expired condiments, leftover food, and any produce that’s seen better days.
Take Out Shelves And Crispers
The most effective method for cleaning refrigerator shelves and crispers involves removing them and rinsing them under running water. Take out all the fixtures and clean them using dishwashing liquid and a gentle, non-abrasive scrub. Afterward, ensure they are thoroughly dried, preferably in direct sunlight to sanitize them.
Wipe The Interiors
Create a cleaning solution by mixing dishwashing liquid, baking soda, and water, and use it to thoroughly wipe down the inside of the refrigerator. If you encounter stubborn food residues, gently scrub them away using a Scotch-Brite pad. Afterward, give the surface another wipe with a sponge dipped in plain water to ensure any soap residue is completely removed from the surface.
Cleaning The Freezer
You can apply the same cleaning steps mentioned above to clean the freezer too. Remember to discard any old ice cubes from the tray and refill it with fresh water for a complete refresh.
Clear the Top Of The Refrigerator
In many Indian households, the top of the refrigerator tends to accumulate coins, bills, and various items without a designated place. Take the time to declutter this space by removing unwanted items and organizing the rest. Additionally, consider using a refrigerator cover to maintain a neat and orderly appearance, ensuring that the space remains organized.
Wipe The Exterior Surfaces
Create a solution by mixing vinegar with drinking water, and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior surface. This not only prevents water spots from forming but also imparts a shine to stainless steel surfaces.
Clean Coils
Utilize a long-bristled brush or a crevice tool attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clean the coils and compressors, typically located at the rear bottom of the refrigerator. Exercise caution and avoid direct contact with the coils or compressors, as they can become very hot during operation.
Simplify Future Clean-Ups
To simplify future cleanups, consider lining the refrigerator shelves. You can use old newspapers or kitchen towels inside the crisper drawers to absorb excess moisture from the fresh produces. Additionally, keeping a sachet of activated charcoal inside the refrigerator can help trap and neutralize any unwanted odors, maintaining a fresher environment.