When it comes to your kitchen, your fridge is one of the most important appliances you have. It’s essential to keep it clean as part of your regular house cleaning routine. However, it’s important to remember that simply wiping it down once a week isn’t enough. If you don’t take the time to clean it properly, food residues and stains can accumulate on the surface, shelves, and drawers. Additionally, perishable items that get pushed to the back of the fridge can cause unpleasant odors every time you open the door.
To clean your fridge from top to bottom, you only need a few simple supplies: water, baking soda, dish soap, and dry cloths. By following these tips, you can ensure that your fridge stays clean, fresh, and in good working order for years to come.
1. Clean drawers and shelves: First, you need to remove the hand-wash refrigerator shelves, drawers, and racks and clean them in hot water by using a mild dish soap. Cover up the stubborn food spills by using a wet and warm cloth for a while to soften the spills. You can use a non-abrasive scrubber after that.
2. Clean the interior of the refrigerator: For the shelves and drawers, you cannot remove the internal compartment sides; use baking soda and water. You can use one part baking soda with seven parts water. Be careful with commercial refrigerator cleaners, as the scents will likely be transferred to the food articles. Work from top to bottom to prevent the drips to the cleaned surfaces. You can use a toothbrush for the cleaning or a toothpick to reach the cracks and other crevices that cannot be accessed by using a cloth.
3. Removing the fridge odor: Keep in mind that the refrigerator is an ideal place for foul odors unless you know how to clean the refrigerator. Luckily, it is possible to tackle the foul smell without using harmful chemicals. After you have rinsed and then dried all the surfaces, you can deodorize the fridge. Fill an open container using a dry baking soda and leave it on the bottom of the shelf. This solution will absorb all the future smells that might linger close to the food.
4. Clean the fridge gasket: Provide additional attention to the fridge rubber gasket that is present around the fridge door. This gasket has to be cleaned regularly to maintain a tight seal. You can utilize liquid dish soap and warm water to clean the everyday grime. If you have a bleach-based cleaner, you can use it for mold. After cleaning, rinse it thoroughly and wipe it. After this, coat the seal with a thin layer of silicone-based lubricant; do not use petroleum jelly, as it will rot the rubber gasket. Allow the lubricant to dry out.
5. Clean the exterior: Cleaning the outside of your refrigerator is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the appearance of your kitchen. Begin by unplugging the fridge or turning off its power for safety. Use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap to gently wipe down the exterior. For stainless steel refrigerators, it’s best to use a cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel to avoid streaks and maintain its sheen. Pay special attention to handles and door edges, where dirt and fingerprints commonly accumulate. For textured surfaces, a soft-bristled brush can help remove grime from crevices. After cleaning, rinse the surface with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then dry with a clean, soft towel. To add an extra shine to stainless steel surfaces, you can apply a small amount of mineral oil or a commercial stainless-steel polish. Remember to regularly clean the rubber door seals with a mild soap solution to ensure a proper seal and to prevent wear.
Some simple steps performed during house cleaning can keep the fridge fresh for long periods. You need to avoid reloading the fridge with spoiled fruits, vegetables, and sloppy food containers to stop all the sticky spills. Some other activities, such as cleaning the refrigerator coils and water dispensers and removing the mold, go a long way in refrigerator cleaning. If you live near Clearwater, FL, it is a great idea to reach out to Cleaning Service Clearwater for expert help.
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