Deep Clean: Fridge
- Take everrrything out
- Spray and wipe down every surface, take out drawers and shelves to hand wash if necessary
- Toss expired foods
- Wipe down bottles and caps so they’re clean too
- Use tools to make your food last longer (and save $$ in the long run) like produce savers and herb jar storage
A clean refrigerator is one of those quiet luxuries of a well-kept home. It keeps food fresh, odors at bay, and daily cooking more pleasant. While it may feel like a task easily postponed, a proper refrigerator clean is surprisingly straightforward—and deeply satisfying—when done with intention.
This is not about perfection or harsh chemicals. It is about restoring order, freshness, and calm to one of the hardest-working spaces in the kitchen.
How Often to Clean Your Refrigerator
Quick tidy: once a week (discard expired items, wipe spills)
Thorough clean: every 1–3 months
Deep clean: twice a year, including coils and seals
A seasonal rhythm—early spring and early fall—works beautifully for most households.
What You’ll Need
Baking soda
White vinegar
Warm water
A few clean cloths or soft sponges
An old toothbrush or small scrub brush
Dish soap
A small bowl
Optional: lemon slices for freshening
Avoid harsh chemical sprays, which can linger on food surfaces and damage interior finishes.
Step 1: Empty the Refrigerator
Begin by removing all contents. Place perishables in a cooler if needed. This step alone often reveals expired condiments, forgotten leftovers, and items ready to be discarded.
As you empty the shelves, check expiration dates and let go of anything that no longer serves you. A clean refrigerator begins with less clutter.
Step 2: Remove Shelves and Drawers
Take out all removable shelves, drawers, and bins. Allow glass shelves to come to room temperature before washing to prevent cracking.
Wash these pieces in warm water with a small amount of dish soap. For stuck-on residue, let them soak for several minutes before gently scrubbing. Rinse well and set aside to air dry.
Step 3: Clean the Interior
Mix a gentle cleaning solution:
Option 1: 2 tablespoons baking soda + 1 quart warm water
Option 2: Equal parts white vinegar and water
Using a clean cloth, wipe down all interior surfaces, paying close attention to corners and seams. Use an old toothbrush to clean crevices where crumbs and spills tend to collect.
Dry surfaces thoroughly with a clean towel before replacing shelves.
Step 4: Clean the Door Seals
The rubber door gaskets are often overlooked but can trap crumbs and moisture. Gently clean them with warm, soapy water and a toothbrush. Dry completely—this helps maintain a proper seal and prevents mold.
Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior
Using a damp cloth and mild soap, clean the refrigerator doors and sides.
For stainless steel, wipe in the direction of the grain and finish with a dry cloth.
Clean handles thoroughly—they are touched more often than we realize.
Step 6: Deodorize Naturally
To keep your refrigerator smelling fresh:
Place an open bowl of baking soda on a shelf
Or tuck a few lemon slices inside for a subtle, clean scent
Avoid heavily scented products, which can transfer odors to food.
Step 7: Return Food Thoughtfully
Before returning items, wipe jars and bottles if needed. Group similar items together—dairy, condiments, produce—so everything has a clear place.
This is an excellent moment to establish simple order that will make everyday cooking easier and more pleasant.
Optional: Clean the Coils (Twice a Year)
If accessible, gently vacuum refrigerator coils to remove dust. This improves efficiency and extends the life of the appliance. Always unplug first.
A Final Thought
Cleaning a refrigerator is not just a chore—it is an act of care for your home and those who live in it. When done regularly and gently, it becomes less of a burden and more of a quiet reset.
A fresh refrigerator sets the tone for the kitchen, and in many ways, for the day ahead.