How to clean your fridge freezer in 5 simple steps
Tackling the fridge and freezer is the big cleaning job we all put off, but once it’s done it’s so worth it! It’s important that you complete a thorough clean of the fridge at least twice a year, and keep the freezer in good condition with a defrost on a regular basis to stop the build-up of ice. If you’ve noticed some strange smells coming from yours recently, try not to ignore it - it’ll only make the problem worse! Instead, take a look at our little wins that’ll help bring your fridge and freezer back to life.
Cleaning your fridge freezer is important
To keep your fridge freezer working efficiently and lasting a long time, it’s important that it gets a regular defrost and clean. It’ll also help you keep on top of hygiene in the kitchen too.
- Removing ice build-up will help keep it working properly
- It’ll stay hygienically clean and smelling fresh
- Prevent any mould or mildew build up
Before you start
Before you roll up your sleeves and get cleaning, make sure you follow these simple rules:
- Don’t use any harsh chemicals around food
- Avoid taking food out of the fridge/freezer on hot days
- Check your fridge freezer manual before removing anything you’re uncertain about
Step 1 - Empty it out
Here are some simple tips to help the cleaning process go without a hitch:
- Clean the fridge and freezer before food shop day, that way there should be less to take out
- Throw away any old, or expired foods, or anything with freezer burn in the freezer
- Take out any removable parts from the fridge, like drawers. Pop these in some warm soapy water (not too hot as it could cause them to crack). Use an old toothbrush or toothpick to get into any crevices
- It’s a good idea to pop an old tea towel on the floor to catch any spillages, especially for the freezer
- When emptying out food from the freezer, be sure to pop it in an insulated freezer bag, and check nothing has defrosted before putting it back in
Step 2 - Onto the cleaning
It’s not rocket science, but these tips will help you get through the process much quicker…
- The first step to defrosting a fridge freezer is to turn it off and unplug it (your fridge will be ok left turned on and plugged in if it doesn’t need a deep clean)
- Remove any visible ice, at the back of the fridge and around the freezer. Be careful when removing this, and never use anything sharp as this could damage the appliance
- If you’re struggling to remove the ice, leave the doors open for a few minutes and come back, this should allow it to melt just enough for it to become loose
- Start cleaning from the top, this way anything which drops can be cleaned up later
Step 3 - Choose your detergent
When it comes to kitchen appliances it’s always best to go for non-abrasive cleaning solutions, so we’re going with traditional warm soapy water!
Mix up a tablespoon of washing-up liquid, and some warm water. Soak your cloth in the mix and ring out, then you’re good to go!
- For tough stains, make a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda (bicarb) – you can also add some water to dilute the mix
- Mix up bicarb and water then leave on stains for five minutes, and it should scrape off much easier
- Never use anything too harsh around food, as it can transfer and leave an odour
- Dry everything with a microfibre cloth then finish with kitchen roll to soak up the excess moisture
Step 4 - Put it all back in
Before putting everything back in, it’s important to check the fridge is back down to its correct temperature after having the door open. To keep your fridge in order, invest in some fridge storage. Our fridge and freezer storage bins are stackable and clear so you can see what’s in them.
- Keep everything tidy by placing any loose veg in food storage bags
- Wipe down any jars, sauces etc before putting them back in
- Make sure nothing is touching the back of the fridge or walls
- Remember to turn the freezer back on!
- Avoid overloading the freezer
Top tip - pop a fridge deodoriser in the back to neutralise any smells
Step 5 - The outside
Now the inside is clean and smelling fresh, make sure you finish the job by giving the doors a good clean down.
- Go for a microfibre cloth and a multi-purpose cleaner
- Be sure to take extra care on the handles and make sure you get rid of all those mucky fingerprints
- Use an antibac spray on the handles to keep germs at bay
- Take extra care on the doors and don’t use anything too harsh or abrasive, as it could damage the finish
Our top tips
Follow these extra tips to keep on top of your fridge and freezer cleaning.
- To keep it odour free, put some baking soda in a small bowl and pop in the corner of your fridge
- Clean it little and often so your hard work doesn’t go to waste
- Mop up any spills as they happen
- Give the shelves a quick wipe down before every food shop
- Don’t leave the freezer door open too long as it’ll add to ice build-up
There you have it! Your fridge and freezer should be back sparkling! What will you clean next? Let us know!
