How to Clean a Refrigerator

Cleaning your refrigerator regularly is important to keep it running at its best. A clean refrigerator will allow air to flow more freely, reducing the amount of energy needed to keep your food cool and further your refrigerator’s lifespan.

Ideally, you should unplug and defrost your refrigerator and freezer annually to clean it fully. For the times that you cannot unplug your refrigerator, here are our tips on how to clean out your refrigerator while leaving it plugged in.

 

 

Prep: Gather Supplies and Plan Your Time

Before you begin cleaning, gather your supplies and prepare a plan:

→ Food Storage: Move your food to a cooler or backup refrigerator and freezer to keep it fresh during cleaning.

→ Time Management: Allow yourself enough time to finish the job in one go to minimize food spoilage.

→ Supplies Checklist:

• White vinegar or baking soda

• A non-abrasive cloth or sponge

• A toothbrush for tight spots

• A bucket of warm water

Pro Tip: Let glass shelves and plastic drawers warm to room temperature before cleaning to prevent cracks or breaks.

 

Step 1: Empty the Fridge

Remove everything from the refrigerator, including shelves and drawers. Place these items in a tub or on the counter for later cleaning. If you’ve experienced a power outage, check out our related guide: How to Handle Food and Clean Your Refrigerator After a Power Outage.

 

 

Step 2: Clean the Interior

1. Mix three parts water and one part white vinegar to create a natural cleaning solution. This is a great option for those wondering, "What is the best thing to clean the inside of a fridge with?"

2. Use a cloth dipped in the solution to wipe down the interior, focusing on sticky spots or food stains.

3. For tougher stains, pour a small amount of undiluted white vinegar directly on the area and let it sit for five minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive brush.

4. Use a toothbrush to clean tight corners and crevices.

5. Clean the shelves and drawers with the same vinegar solution or a paste made from baking soda and water for tougher grime.

6. Dry everything with a clean towel before replacing drawers, shelves, and food.

 

Step 3: Clean the Exterior

Refrigerator surfaces are prone to fingerprints and smudges. Make sure you use a gentle cleaner meant for your appliance's finish.

• Use the same vinegar-water mixture or a stainless-steel cleaner.

• Wipe in the direction of the grain to maintain the finish.

• Don’t forget to clean the handles and any touchscreens or controls!

 

 

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Coils

Cleaning your refrigerator coils annually helps your fridge run efficiently. Here’s how to clean refrigerator coils:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for safety.

2. Locate the coils (often at the back or bottom).

3. Use a coil brush or vacuum attachment to remove dust and debris.

4. Plug the refrigerator back in once the coils are clean.

 

 

Tips for Specialized Refrigerator Cleaning Needs

Here are some quick and effective solutions for tackling those tricky, often-overlooked areas of your refrigerator to ensure a thorough clean:

• How to clean refrigerator door rubber: Use a toothbrush and a mixture of warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and grime from the gasket.

• How to clean a fridge without turning it off: Work quickly, one section at a time, and keep the doors closed as much as possible.

• How to clean a refrigerator freezer: Defrost first if needed, then follow the same cleaning steps as the fridge interior.

 

Upgrade Your Refrigerator

A clean refrigerator is just one step toward a well-organized and efficient kitchen. If it’s time for a new appliance, consider these top-rated models available at Queen City:

• LG Smart InstaView® Door-in-Door® 4-Door French Door Refrigerator (Model: LF29S8365S): With a sleek InstaView panel and customizable MyColor™ LED lighting, this refrigerator is as innovative as it is elegant.

• Whirlpool® Side-by-Side Refrigerator (Model: WRS588FIHZ): A versatile side-by-side option that combines ample storage space with advanced cooling features to keep your food fresher for longer.

• Café™ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator (Model: CSB42YP2NS1): This stunning built-in model offers premium styling, smart technology, and a sophisticated design perfect for modern kitchens.

 

 

Visit Queen City for the Best Refrigerators in North Carolina

With these tips and recommendations, your refrigerator will be sparkling clean and running efficiently in no time. 

At Queen City, we carry a wide selection of refrigerators. Choose from our top-freezer refrigerators, French door refrigerators, side-by-side refrigerators, bottom-freezer refrigerators, freezers, and more.

Contact us or visit one of our local Queen City locations across North Carolina to shop for your new refrigerator. We offer the best refrigerators from Café, Monogram, Sub-Zero, and more. Explore our selection of refrigerators and upgrade today!

Related readings from our blog:

• How To Clean A Garbage Disposal

• How To Clean An Oven

• The Best GE Refrigerators For Optimal Storage

 

FAQs About Cleaning Your Refrigerator

1. How do you clean a refrigerator with baking soda?
Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply it to tough stains, let it sit for five minutes, and then scrub with a sponge.

2. How do you clean a refrigerator that smells?
Place an open box of baking soda inside after cleaning to absorb lingering odors. You can also wipe down the interior with vinegar.

3. Can I clean my fridge without unplugging it?
Yes, just clean quickly and section by section to minimize energy loss and food spoilage.

4. How do I clean a Whirlpool refrigerator?
Use a soft cloth and a vinegar-water solution for the interior, and clean the exterior with a microfiber cloth to maintain the finish.

5. How often should I clean my refrigerator?
Deep clean your fridge every three months or more frequently if spills or odors occur.