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.