Kitchen

How to Clean Refrigerator

Keeping your refrigerator clean isn't just about appearance -- it's about hygiene and performance. Here's how to do it right, with the supplies you probably already have at home.

What You'll Need

  • Soap-Man Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Old toothbrush
  • Warm water

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Empty and sort contents

    Remove all food items, discarding anything expired. Place perishables in a cooler while you clean. Remove all shelves, drawers, and bins.

  2. 2

    Wash removable parts

    Wash shelves and drawers in the sink with warm water and Vibes Multi-Surface Cleaner. Let glass shelves come to room temperature first to prevent cracking.

  3. 3

    Clean the interior

    Wipe down all interior surfaces with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda dissolved in warm water. This cleans and deodorizes simultaneously.

  4. 4

    Address the gasket and exterior

    Scrub the door gasket folds with an old toothbrush and vinegar solution to remove mold and trapped food. Wipe down the exterior with Multi-Surface Cleaner.

  5. 5

    Clean the coils

    Pull the fridge away from the wall and vacuum the condenser coils on the back or underneath. Dusty coils make your fridge work harder and run up electricity bills.

Pro Tips

  • TIPKeep an open box of baking soda in the fridge at all times, replacing it every 30 days, to absorb odors continuously.
  • TIPClean condenser coils twice a year to improve energy efficiency and extend the life of your refrigerator by years.
  • TIPLine crisper drawers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and make future cleanouts faster.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XUsing hot water on cold glass shelves, which can crack them from thermal shock. Let them warm to room temperature first.
  • XSpraying cleaner directly inside the fridge near food contact surfaces -- always spray onto a cloth first.
  • XForgetting to clean the drip pan under the fridge, which can harbor mold and cause mysterious odors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do a quick wipe of spills weekly. Deep clean (empty and wash all surfaces) every 3-4 months. Clean coils every 6 months.