You use your refrigerator every day. If you’re like most people, you put many items in there and then forget about them. Between the forgotten leftovers in the back and the constant traffic your refrigerator encounters, routine deep cleanings are a must. Let’s take a closer look at the steps you’ll need to take to restore your fridge to a pristine condition.
Empty the Refrigerator
Start cleaning your refrigerator by removing all the contents. This is a great time to sort out what to keep and what you need to throw away. Put everything you plan to keep into a cooler. If items are out of date, pitch them. The same goes for spoiled leftovers.
Clean Removable Shelves and Drawers
Take out any shelves or drawers that are removable. If they are glass or plastic, wash them in warm, soapy water. Dish detergent works beautifully. Don’t immerse them in hot water directly out of the fridge. They could crack from the abrupt change in temperature. Avoid the dishwasher too, unless the manufacturer’s instructions state otherwise. You can scrub metal racks a little more aggressively.
Wipe Down the Interior
You’ll need to wipe down the walls, floor, and ceiling of the interior, along with any drawers or shelves you couldn’t remove. A soft cloth with warm soapy water works well. If you notice odors, wipe the inside down with a baking soda and water mixture. Avoid chemical cleaners. These can leave behind a scent that may transfer to your food.
Clean the Gasket
The gasket is the seal around the door that keeps the cold air inside your refrigerator. If it’s dirty, it won’t seal properly. Wipe it down thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
Clean and Return the Contents
The items you have kept to put back in the refrigerator may be messy too. Things like milk bottles, jelly jars, and other food containers often have drips and spills on them. You don’t want to put them in your clean fridge without wiping them off. Once again, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water to wipe the top, sides, and bottom of each item as you return it to its place inside the refrigerator.
Keeping Your Refrigerator Clean
Between deep cleanings, wipe down areas you can easily reach. This will keep your refrigerator looking terrific and smelling fresh. If you need any additional help, call Appliance Super Techs in Queen Creek, AZ to learn more about our refrigerator service.