Published By: Alfaraz Laique

Clean your refrigerator at home with these tips

The summer is here and it is time to freeze everything up. From cold water to ice cubes, there are many things that we need from our fridge, right? It’s time to clean it up for the maximum cooling.

We'll share easy and effective tips to help you clean and freshen up your refrigerator right at home.

Empty and Sort

The first step to cleaning your refrigerator is emptying it out completely. Take everything out, shelf by shelf, and place items on the counter. This is a great opportunity to check expiration dates and get rid of any old or moldy food.

As you remove items, sort through them and organize similar products together. Grouping items like dairy, meats, fruits, and veggies will make it easier to put things back in an organized manner later on. Consider using bins or containers to keep smaller items contained.

Once your fridge is empty, take this chance to wipe down shelves and drawers with a damp cloth or sponge. This will help remove any spills or sticky residue that may have built up over time. A clean slate will make putting everything back inside much more satisfying.

Freshen with Baking Soda

Freshening up your refrigerator with baking soda is a simple and effective way to eliminate any lingering odours. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that helps absorb unwanted smells, leaving your fridge smelling fresh and clean.

To freshen your refrigerator, start by placing an open box of baking soda on one of the shelves. Alternatively, you can create a DIY odour-absorbing sachet by filling a small container with baking soda and poking holes in the lid for air circulation.

Replace the baking soda every 1-3 months to ensure maximum freshness. You'll be surprised at how well this natural remedy works to maintain a pleasant aroma in your fridge without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.

Turn it off to unfreeze it

Turning off your refrigerator to unfreeze it might seem counterintuitive, but it's actually a key step in deep cleaning this essential appliance. When ice builds up in the freezer compartment, it can affect the efficiency of your fridge and lead to potential issues down the line.

To start this process, empty out all the contents of your fridge and store them safely elsewhere. Then, unplug your refrigerator from the power source. Leaving the door open will allow any ice buildup to naturally melt away.

Check Drip Tray and Drain Hole

This area can accumulate dirt, grime, and even mould if left unchecked. To prevent any unpleasant odours or potential leaks, it's essential to include them in your cleaning routine.

Start by locating the drip tray usually found beneath the refrigerator. Remove it carefully and dispose of any collected water or debris. Give it a good scrub with warm soapy water before placing it back in its spot.

Find the drain hole inside the fridge where excess water drains out. Use a pipe cleaner or small brush to clear any blockages that may have formed over time. Ensuring this area is clean and free-flowing will help maintain optimal performance of your appliance.

Clean door seals

Use a mild detergent mixed with warm water to gently scrub away any buildup. Be sure to pay attention to crevices where dirt can hide.For stubborn stains or residue, a mixture of baking soda and water can help break down the grime effectively. Using a soft brush or cloth, work the paste into the seal and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.

After cleaning, ensure that the seals are completely dry before closing the refrigerator door to prevent mold growth. Regularly maintaining clean door seals will not only improve the efficiency of your fridge but also keep it smelling fresh longer.