How often do you really think about scrubbing down the fridge? As in deep cleaning, corners, shelves, drawers and all—the door closes, light goes out, end of story, right? But it is the central spot we store food, and Terry Sanderson, owner of The Maids of Cincinnati, knows firsthand how important a spic-and-span fridge can be for you and your family’s health.
1. Use the right products. “Soapy water, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, distilled white vinegar, and elbow grease all get the job done,” Terry begins.
2. Individually clean drawers and shelving. Which, yep, means removing each shelf and drawer, then cleaning with hot, soapy water. Rinse, dry, and wipe with a dry cloth.
3. Focus on the inside. Start by removing grime in door seals, scrubbing with a toothbrush dipped in hot water. Then working from the top down, wipe down the inside, roof and shelf guides with hot, soapy water. “To get rid of stains, use a paste made with baking powder and water,” Terry advises. Wipe down everything with a dry cloth.
4. Kill germs. “For disinfecting, hydrogen peroxide is a safe, natural alternative to bleach—and it’s an effective antibacterial and mold-killer. Pour a bottle of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and spray down the inside. Let the peroxide do its job for about 10 minutes, wipe it off with a damp cloth, then dry.”
5. Don’t forget the outside! Dust the top of your refrigerator. For the water dispenser tray, remove and wash it with hot, soapy water and vinegar to disinfect. Take off the bottom kick plate and wash with hot, soapy water, then dry—same for the front and sides. Stainless steel smudges? Glass cleaner is the key.
“Your fridge should look pretty good by now,” Terry finishes. “But don’t forget—twice a year, give the coils a gentle cleaning, too.”
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