Keeping a freezer clean goes beyond hygiene. It protects proper storage, preserves food quality, and stops unpleasant odors from taking over. Here is a thorough guide to cleaning the refrigerator efficiently and easily.
How to clean the refrigerator to prevent bad odors?
Start by closing the door or setting the temperature to the coldest safe level. Remove all food, check expiration dates, and discard anything that is no longer safe to eat. This step clarifies what is actually needed and helps reduce food waste.
Take out all trays, drawers, and shelves. These parts often trap food debris and spilled liquids, so clean them separately. Place them in the sink or on a clean workspace where they can be washed properly.
Wash trays, shelves, and drawers with warm water and a mild detergent. For stubborn stains, mix baking soda with water to form a paste that lifts marks. Dry everything completely before returning items to the fridge.
Use a solution of warm water and white vinegar in a 1 to 1 ratio to clean the interior. This mixture removes bacteria and odors without causing damage. Wipe all surfaces, including the sides and back. For hard-to-reach spots, use an old toothbrush or a cotton swab.
The door seal is a common area for mold and grime. Clean it with the same water and vinegar solution. Also wipe the exterior surfaces, including handles and the top where dust tends to accumulate.
Make sure the trays and shelves are completely dry before reassembling to prevent mold and odor buildup. When organizing foods, place items with the earliest expiration date toward the front so they are used first.
To curb odors, keep a box of baking soda in the refrigerator. It absorbs smells effectively, so replace it every three months. Consider using a dedicated refrigerator cleaner or disinfectant wipes for quick touches between deep cleans.
During rearrangement, follow basic guidelines for optimal food preservation: place raw meats on the bottom to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods; separate fruits and vegetables into different drawers to minimize ethylene transfer that speeds ripening; keep dairy products on shelves where temperatures stay more stable; store spices and canned goods toward the door since those items tolerate temperature fluctuations better.
Make sure the refrigerator temperature stays within a safe range, typically around 3°C to 5°C. The freezer should be around -18°C for best preservation. Controlling humidity inside the fridge also helps keep foods fresher longer and reduces mold growth.
Cleaning the inside of the refrigerator regularly may seem tedious, but it is essential for maintaining hygiene, keeping food fresh, and reducing the risk of foodborne illness. A tidy, well-ordered refrigerator boosts kitchen efficiency and supports a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
Additional Tips:
- Deep cleaning the refrigerator every three months helps keep it in optimum condition.
- Returning food to the refrigerator encourages inventory and meal planning, reducing waste.
- Consider using airtight containers to store foods and maintain order inside the fridge.