How to Clean Your Refrigerator

How Often Should You Be Deep Cleaning Your Refrigerator? 

Cleaning your refrigerator regularly can help potentially prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. A quick spot clean is needed in your refrigerator for spills, leaks, and if food has spoiled. You should plan for a more thorough deep cleaning about every three months.

Deep cleaning your refrigerator regularly can also help with unwanted odors.

Most of the time, the contents of your refrigerator stay out of your sight, meaning you may forget to clean it while you regularly can see the rest of your kitchen.

How to Deep Clean Your Refrigerator Step by Step  

The first step to cleaning your refrigerator is gathering the right tools. For cleaning products, consult your owner’s manual or the appliance manufacturer to see what products are recommended. Typically, soapy water is a safe bet. You will also need:

• Vacuum cleaner with a soft bristled brush
• Sponges, cleaning cloths, or paper towels
• Cooler with ice if you plan on taking longer than an hour
  
  

1. 1. Start by unplugging your refrigerator and placing your food that could spoil in a cooler with ice. Remove any drawers and shelves that you can from your refrigerator.
      
      
   2. Wipe down the inside of your refrigerator with soapy water or any cleaning products that the manufacturer recommends. Do the same with any drawers or shelves that you may have taken out. Wipe down all parts and pieces so they are fully dry before fitting them back into your refrigerator.
      
      
   3. Use your vacuum and a soft bristled brush to gently clean the condenser coils that are usually located under the fridge or on the back side of the unit.
      
      
   4. Don’t forget to wipe down the outside of your refrigerator as well, especially the handles.
      
      

Remember not to leave your food outside of your fridge for an extended period of time. While you want your refrigerator clean, keep an eye on the clock to not let your food spoil before you have the chance to load it back in.

Other Simple Ways You Can Maintain Your Refrigerator 

• Clean the door seals regularly and test for a tight fit
• Remove the front grille and vacuum the coils regularly
• Replace water filters according to manufacturer guidelines
• Use a level to check that the refrigerator is balanced
• Leave space between items and do not overpack your refrigerator 

What Foods Should You Keep in Different Areas of your Refrigerator?  

Different families have different ways of storing their food. There may be a reason to store certain foods in certain places, however.

Refrigerator Door – Good Fit for Condiments and Pickles

The door of the refrigerator is the area most likely to see fluctuations in temperature. For this reason, storing anything that could easily spoil in the door shelves is probably not the wisest idea. Dairy products like milk or eggs should have more constant temperatures. Condiments, however, like ketchup and sauces, typically spoil less easily.

Lower Shelves– Good Fit for Meats 

The coldest area inside of a refrigerator is the lower shelves. Storing meats as low as you can also prevents any juices from accidentally dripping onto other foods.

When Should You Replace Your Refrigerator? 

Depending on your model of refrigerator, it should last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more. Here are some red flag signs that your refrigerator may be on its way out.

• Food spoiling faster than normal
• Condensation inside your refrigerator
• A rising electric bill with no other new usage
• A new grinding noise
• Leaking water coming from the appliance
• Ice buildup inside of your freezer

While You’re At It, Shop Insurance Quotes for Your Home 

Requesting an insurance quote for your home is as simple as filling out our form here. If you would prefer to call someone to start the quoting process, you can find a list of our office phone numbers here. With offices in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Florida, your local office may be closer than you think.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.