The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Fridge & Freezer

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Fridge & Freezer

Your fridge and freezer work hard to preserve your food, but when's the last time you gave them the care they deserve? A clean and organized fridge does more than look nice — it helps reduce food waste, prevent odors, and keep your food safe. This guide will walk you through every step to a sparkling fridge and freezer!

Step 1: The Great Purge

  • Empty it out: Remove everything from your fridge and freezer. Place perishables in a cooler with ice packs while you work.
  • Check expiry dates: Toss anything expired or questionable.
  • Wipe up spills: Clean up sticky spills and messes on shelves and in drawers.

Step 2: Deep Clean and Disinfect

  • Remove drawers and shelves: Take out any removable parts and hand wash them in warm, soapy water. Dry completely.
  • Clean the interior: Mix a solution of baking soda and water (about 1 part baking soda to 7 parts water), and wipe down the entire interior – walls, ceiling, door, etc. Avoid harsh commercial cleaners that can leave chemical residues.
  • Don't forget the exterior: Wipe down the front, sides, handles, and seals with a damp cloth and soapy water.
  • Dry and replace: Thoroughly dry the interior of your fridge and freezer before putting shelves and drawers back in.

Step 3: Organize for Success

  • Categorize your food: Group similar items together (dairy, produce, sauces, etc.) for easy access and visibility.
  • Utilize clear containers: Store leftovers and loose items in transparent containers to see what you have and prevent forgotten food in the back.
  • Label and date: Prevent food waste by clearly labeling items with the contents and date of preparation.
  • Invest in organizers: Consider adding bins, lazy Susans, or shelf liners to keep your fridge tidy.

Step 4: Freezer Fundamentals

  • Defrost if needed: If your freezer has significant ice buildup, follow the manufacturer's instructions for defrosting.
  • Clean and organize: After defrosting, wipe down the interior as you did the fridge. Reorganize to maximize space and prevent freezer-burned mysteries.
  • Minimize future frost: Reduce frost buildup in the future by keeping your freezer full (but not overloaded) and minimizing how long the door stays open.

Maintenance Tips

  • Wipe up spills promptly: Clean up any drips or spills to prevent them from hardening.
  • Regular cleanouts: Schedule mini cleanouts every month or so to toss expired items and reorganize as needed.
  • Use fridge deodorizers: Activated charcoal or a small container of baking soda can help neutralize odors.

 

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