A clean, well-organized fridge does more than look tidy — it protects the food inside it. This 12-step guide walks through exactly how to deep clean yours properly, from gathering supplies to setting the right temperature when you’re done.
Gather Your Supplies
- Warm, soapy water
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Microfiber cloths
- A soft scrubbing sponge
- An old toothbrush
- Food-safe disinfectant spray
Check your fridge’s user manual for any manufacturer-specific cleaning recommendations, and always stick to food-safe products, since they’ll be in direct contact with what you eat.
Empty the Fridge
Use this as a chance to check for expired items and clear them out. Group similar items together on the counter to make putting everything back easier afterward.
Remove Shelves and Drawers
Slide or lift shelves and drawers out carefully to avoid damaging them. If anything feels stuck, check your user manual for the right removal method.
Wash Shelves and Drawers
Soak and scrub with warm, soapy water, paying extra attention to sticky residue or stains. Rinse thoroughly and let everything air dry completely before putting it back.
Scrub the Interior
Mix one part white vinegar to three parts water for an effective, natural cleaner. Start at the top and work down, wiping walls, shelves, and drawers as you go, and give sticky spills extra scrubbing where needed.
Deodorize with Baking Soda
Place an open box of baking soda on a shelf to absorb odors. If your fridge has a separate freezer compartment, add one there too.
Clean Seals and Gaskets
Use a damp cloth or an old toothbrush on the rubber seals around the door. Go gently but thoroughly, since crumbs and grime tend to accumulate in these grooves.
Clean the Exterior
Wipe down the front, sides, and top with a damp cloth, paying extra attention to handles, buttons, and any exposed coils on the back.
Organize and Return Food
Before putting anything back, check for freshness and proper sealing. Labeling and dating leftovers, plus using clear storage containers, makes staying organized much easier going forward.
Set the Right Temperature
Check and adjust your fridge’s temperature, aiming for around 3°C (37°F) to keep food fresh and safe. Consult your manual if you’re unsure how to adjust it on your specific model.
Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
A quick weekly check for spills, expired items, and general cleanliness goes a long way toward reducing how much work each deep clean actually requires.
Set a Deep Cleaning Schedule
Build a reminder into your routine to deep clean every 3–6 months, or sooner if needed. Pairing this with our full room-by-room cleaning checklist keeps the rest of your kitchen on the same consistent schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any cleaning product to clean my fridge?
Stick to food-safe, non-toxic products — a white vinegar and water mix works well. Check your manual for any manufacturer-specific recommendations.
Can I use bleach to clean my fridge?
It’s best avoided. Bleach and other harsh chemicals can leave lingering odors or residue that ends up in contact with your food.
How often should I deep clean my fridge?
Every 3–6 months is a solid rule of thumb, with quick weekly checks for spills and expired items in between to keep things manageable.
What should I do with my food while cleaning?
Keep perishables in a cooler with ice packs during the process, and leave non-perishables out on the counter until you’re ready to put everything back.
Can I use a steam cleaner on my fridge?
Some models allow it, but check your user manual first to confirm it’s safe for your specific fridge before trying it.