When cleaning your refrigerator, here are some simple tips.
1) Turn the temperature knob off. The fridge will be open for a while and there’s no sense in wasting electricity.
2) If your fridge is particularly dirty, place the food in coolers while you clean it. This way you won’t have to worry about any of the food spoiling. Fruits and veggies will keep longer if they are kept at a constant temperature.
3) Throw out anything that is spoiled, moldy or expired. Throw out leftovers that are more than a week old. Throw out any condiments or other items that haven’t been used in a month or two.
4) Take the drawers and shelves out and let them soak in hot soapy water. Dish soap is fine to use. You may want to soak them in the bath tub if your sink is too small to accommodate them all at once. If you do put them in the tub, you will need to clean the tub afterwards.
5) Wipe down the inside of the fridge with a sponge or scouring pad, being careful not to scratch the interior of the fridge. It you scratch the lining it may damage it and cost more for you to keep the fridge cold. You may need to let spills soak before they will come up. If odor is an issue, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water. It will also double as a gentle scouring powder.
6) Wash the drawers and shelves with hot, soapy water. For best results, let them air dry. Or dry them with paper towels.
7) Replace the drawers and shelves when everything is dry. Letting it dry will help prevent bacteria growth.
8) As you put things back into the fridge, wipe down any jars or dishes that are sticky or have spills. Make sure you turn the temperature knob back on.
9) Wipe down the outside of the fridge with warm, soapy water. Also wipe down the rubber seals.
10) A couple of times a year, it is wise to pull the fridge out and clean underneath and behind it.
