How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator?

Your refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your home. It keeps your food fresh and safe to eat, and it helps you save money and reduce waste. But how often do you clean your refrigerator? And do you know how to clean it properly?

Cleaning your refrigerator is not just about wiping the shelves and drawers with a damp cloth. It also involves removing expired or spoiled food, sanitizing the interior surfaces, and checking the seals and vents for any dirt or debris. And don't forget about the back and sides of the refrigerator, where dust and grease can accumulate and affect its performance.

In this article, we will give you some tips on how often to clean your refrigerator and how to do it effectively.

HOW OFTEN TO CLEAN INSIDE THE REFRIGERATOR,

The inside of your refrigerator should be cleaned at least once a month, or more often if you notice any spills, stains, or odors. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, which can cause food poisoning and spoilage.

To clean the inside of your refrigerator, follow these steps:

• Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.

• Remove all the food from the refrigerator and store it in a cooler or another fridge. Throw away any expired or spoiled food.

• Remove the shelves, drawers, and bins and wash them with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before putting them back.

• Wipe the interior walls, ceiling, and door with a solution of one tablespoon of baking soda and one quart of warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge and avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Pay special attention to any spills or stains.

• Sanitize the interior surfaces with a solution of one teaspoon of bleach and one gallon of water. Spray or wipe the solution on the surfaces and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then wipe it off with a clean damp cloth.

• Plug in the refrigerator or turn on the power at the circuit breaker.

• Return the food to the refrigerator and organize it by category and expiration date. Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood on the bottom shelf or in a separate drawer to prevent cross-contamination.

HOW OFTEN TO CLEAN BEHIND THE REFRIGERATOR,

The back and sides of your refrigerator should be cleaned at least twice a year, or more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area or if you have a busy household. This will help improve the efficiency and lifespan of your refrigerator by removing any dust, dirt, or grease that can clog the coils and vents.

To clean behind and under your refrigerator, follow these steps:

• Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.

• Pull out the refrigerator from its place carefully. Use a dolly or ask someone to help you if needed.

• Vacuum or sweep behind and under the refrigerator to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. Use a crevice tool or a brush attachment to reach narrow spaces.

• Wipe down the back, sides and top of the refrigerator with a damp cloth or sponge. Use mild soap or vinegar if there are any grease stains.

• Clean the condenser coils with a coil brush or a vacuum cleaner. The coils are located either behind or under the refrigerator, depending on the model. They look like black tubes that run across or along the back or bottom of the refrigerator. Be gentle and avoid bending or damaging the coils.

• Clean the vent grills with a damp cloth or sponge. The vent grills are located either behind or under the refrigerator, depending on the model. They look like slits or holes that allow air to circulate in and out of the refrigerator. Make sure they are not blocked by any dust, debris or pet hair.

• Plug in the refrigerator or turn on the power at the circuit breaker.

• Push back the refrigerator to its place carefully. Make sure there is enough space between the refrigerator and the wall for proper ventilation.

Cleaning your refrigerator regularly will help you keep it in good condition and extend its life. It will also help you maintain a healthy and hygienic environment for your food and your family. So don't neglect this important task and make it a part of your routine. Or better yet, call us to get the interior of your refrigerator cleaned. www.kristklean.com