How Do I Clean The Inside Of My Refrigerator?

Over time, spills, crumbs, and expired food can turn your refrigerator into a mess, making it less functional and hygienic. Fortunately, cleaning the inside of your refrigerator isn’t as daunting as it may seem! Follow these simple fridge cleaning steps to keep it spotless and fresh.

 

 

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before diving into the cleaning process, make sure you have the following supplies on hand:

• Mild dish soap or a gentle multi-purpose cleaner.

• White vinegar or baking soda for natural deodorizing.

• Microfiber cloths or sponges for wiping surfaces.

• A small brush or toothbrush for fridge crevices.

• A bucket of warm water for rinsing.

• Trash bags for expired or spoiled items.

💡 Silica Tip: Line your fridge shelves with washable mats or easy-to-remove shelf liners. They catch spills and crumbs, making cleanup faster next time. Just take them out, rinse, and replace them—no scrubbing required!

 

 

Step 2: Empty Your Refrigerator

Start by removing everything from the refrigerator, including food, shelves, and drawers. This makes it easier to access all areas and make sure nothing gets in the way.

• Check expiration dates: Toss out anything expired or questionable. When in doubt, throw it out!

• Use a cooler: Place perishable items like milk and meat in a cooler to keep them cold during the cleaning process.

 

Step 3: Wash Removable Shelves and Drawers

Shelves and drawers often bear the brunt of spills and leaks. To clean them effectively:

1. Wash in warm, soapy water: Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away stains and residue.

2. Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to remove all soap to avoid residue buildup.

3. Dry completely: Use a clean towel to dry shelves and drawers before reinserting them.

💡 Silica Tip: Consider refrigerators with easy-to-remove shelves, such as the Frigidaire Gallery French Door Refrigerator (Model: GRMS2773AF) This refrigerator also offers SpaceWise® Organization System, which is a flexible organization solution that maximizes usable space and adapts to your family's needs.

 

 

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior

Now that the refrigerator is empty, it’s time to tackle the interior.

1. Use a gentle cleaner: Spray a mixture of water and mild dish soap or diluted white vinegar onto all surfaces.

2. Focus on corners and seals: Use a toothbrush or small brush to scrub hard-to-reach areas, like door seals and crevices.

3. Deodorize with baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda on stubborn stains and scrub lightly with a damp sponge.

4. Wipe dry: Finish by drying surfaces with a clean cloth to prevent moisture buildup.

 

Step 5: Clean the Exterior

Don’t forget about the outside of your refrigerator! Dust and grime can accumulate on handles and doors.

• Use a stainless-steel cleaner: If your refrigerator has a stainless-steel finish, use a cleaner specifically designed for it.

• Dust the coils: Vacuum or dust the condenser coils (usually located at the back or bottom) to improve energy efficiency.

 

Step 6: Restock Your Refrigerator

Once everything is clean and dry, it’s time to organize and restock.

• Group similar items: Store similar items together for easy access. Deli meats, fruits, and veggies should all have designated places in your fridge.

• Use bins or trays: Keep small items contained to prevent future messes.

• Adjust the temperature: Make sure your refrigerator is set to the recommended temperature of 37–40°F for optimal freshness.

 

Step 7: Keep It Fresh

Regular maintenance can keep your refrigerator clean and odor-free. Here’s how:

• Wipe spills immediately: Prevent sticky messes by cleaning up spills as soon as they happen.

• Declutter weekly: Check for expired food and toss it out.

• Use fridge deodorizers: Place an open box of baking soda or a dedicated fridge deodorizer on a shelf to absorb odors.

 

 

Tips for Keeping Your Fridge Clean

A deep clean every few months is great, but a little regular maintenance goes a long way.

✅ Wipe up spills as soon as they happen.

✅ Do a quick check every week to remove expired food.

✅ Place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb odors.

 

Explore Easy-to-clean Refrigerators at Silica

By staying on top of small messes, you can avoid major cleanouts later! 

Contact us today or visit our Silica store locations in Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, and Watertown, Wisconsin, to explore our selection of refrigerators. We offer top brands in stock, including LG, GE, Café, Bosch, and more. Our helpful staff is ready to help you find the perfect match for your kitchen.

Shop refrigerators today and experience the best in freshness and storage optimization!

Related readings from our blog:

• Refrigerator Troubleshooting: How To Fix A Fridge

• What Size Refrigerator Should I Buy?

• Refrigerator With Ice Makers: What You Should Know

 

FAQ: Cleaning Inside a Refrigerator

1. How do you get rid of mold inside a refrigerator?
Mix one part white vinegar with one part water and scrub the moldy areas with a cloth or brush. Dry thoroughly to prevent mold from returning.

2. Can I use Clorox wipes to clean the inside of my fridge?
Yes, Clorox wipes can be used for quick cleaning, but ensure the surfaces are food-safe by wiping them down with water afterward.

3. What should you not clean a fridge with?
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach inside the fridge, as they can leave strong odors and aren’t safe for food storage areas.

4. What is the best product to deep clean a refrigerator?
A simple solution of warm water and dish soap or diluted white vinegar works great. For stubborn stains, baking soda is a good option.

5. What kind of vinegar kills mold?
White distilled vinegar is highly effective at killing mold due to its high acidity level. Use it undiluted for best results.