How to clean your refrigerator in 4 simple steps

Cleaning the inside of your refrigerator isn’t fun, but it is essential. Wiping down shelves, drawers and interior walls can help eliminate fridge odors and stains. It also helps clear away mold spores or bacteria that can spoil food. 

Not sure how to get started? Our guide gives you practical tips on how to clean a fridge and keep it in better shape between cleanings.

How often should you clean your fridge? 

It is recommended you clean and maintain your fridge every three months. Cleaning your refrigerator quarterly will help keep it organized and make better use of storage space.

What to use to clean a fridge 

There are a variety of household cleaning products that you can use to help refresh your refrigerator, including dishwashing soap, warm water and a vinegar solution. Be sure to check your owner's manual for any cleaning instructions to avoid using products that may harm your fridge.

Vinegar

The acidity of vinegar can soften food and grease build-up, which helps you clean up spills. Vinegar is especially useful on spills that have gone unnoticed and are stuck to the walls and shelves of the fridge. As far as how to clean a refrigerator with vinegar, mix up a 1:1 solution of vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, apply it to spills and thoroughly wipe with a clean cloth.

Baking soda

Cleaning a fridge with baking soda mixed with water helps clean the inside walls of your refrigerator without leaving behind scents from chemical-based cleaners. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda and one cup of hot water to wipe down the inside of your refrigerator. This is especially important when you’re cleaning an area that comes into contact with your food. When it comes to the more challenging crevices, cracks, hinges and hardware in your fridge, a toothbrush should do the trick to help remove build-up.

Hot soapy water

Removable items in your refrigerator—such as shelving or drawers—can be cleaned with hot, soapy water. After you have thoroughly cleaned these pieces, make sure they are completely dry before putting them back in your fridge.

The best way to clean a refrigerator: step-by-step instructions

Fridge cleaning is essential for your family and your food. This simple guide will teach you how to deep clean a fridge as well as how to remove stains from inside the refrigerator. This is a process that should be performed seasonally for optimal refrigerator maintenance and refrigerator organization. Another tip is to clean your refrigerator before you go shopping when there are fewer groceries in your fridge. 

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How to clean mold from a fridge

You can try and tackle mold and mildew with vinegar which is commonly used in these scenarios. Take out any removable shelves or drawers from your fridge to gain better access to the interior. Spray undiluted vinegar directly on the area you want to clean. Wipe every corner and crevice with a damp cloth to thoroughly get rid of the mold and dry all surfaces with a towel. Be sure to clean the cloth with hot water and detergent before using it again. Also, while you have the shelves and drawers removed, take the time to thoroughly clean and dry them before replacing them.

How to remove stains from inside a fridge

White vinegar diluted with warm water helps remove many yellow stains and spills in your refrigerator. Vinegar’s acidity can break down a stain and help remove grease and grime buildups. Be sure to wipe your fridge clean with a damp cloth and dry all cleaned surfaces with a towel.

Shop Whirlpool^® Refrigerators

Whirlpool brand has a refrigerator for every home, whether you prefer French door, side-by-side, bottom freezer or top freezer designs. Features like Spillproof Glass Shelves and fingerprint resistant finish on select models make Whirlpool^® Refrigerators convenient to clean when it’s time to tackle leftover spills and your family’s fingerprints.