Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It runs 24/7, keeps your food fresh, and stores everything from produce to leftovers. But when was the last time you gave it a proper deep clean?
At Dust Bunnies, we know that deep cleaning your fridge isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about maintaining hygiene, eliminating odors, and extending the life of your appliance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to deep clean your fridge, using safe techniques and professional tips.
Why Deep Cleaning Your Fridge Matters
A dirty refrigerator isn’t just unpleasant—it can also become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and lingering food odors. Regular wipe-downs help, but a deep fridge cleaning goes much further by targeting hidden spills, expired food, and grimy shelves.
Benefits of deep cleaning your fridge:
-
Removes built-up grime and bacteria
-
Improves energy efficiency
-
Prevents cross-contamination
-
Eliminates unpleasant smells
-
Keeps food fresher, longer
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Fridge?
Ideally, your refrigerator should get a deep clean every 3 to 4 months. If you’re storing strong-smelling foods, have frequent spills, or notice odors, you may need to clean it more often. Weekly wipe-downs help, but they don’t replace a full deep clean.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather the following supplies:
-
Baking soda or white vinegar
-
Dish soap
-
Microfiber cloths or sponges
-
A bucket or bowl of warm water
-
Old toothbrush or soft scrub brush
-
Garbage bags
-
Optional: Fridge-safe deodorizer or activated charcoal
Step-by-Step: How to Deep Clean Your Fridge
1. Empty the Fridge Completely
Remove all food items, condiments, and beverages. Toss anything expired, spoiled, or questionable. Place perishable items in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them cold while you clean.
2. Take Out Shelves and Drawers
Carefully remove all removable parts, including shelves, bins, and door compartments. Let them come to room temperature before washing to avoid cracking.
3. Soak and Scrub
Wash shelves and drawers in warm, soapy water. For stuck-on grime, sprinkle baking soda and gently scrub with a sponge or old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
4. Wipe Down Interior Surfaces
Use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar (or a mild dish soap mix) to wipe the interior walls, ceiling, and floor of the fridge. Pay close attention to seams, corners, and rubber seals where crumbs and mold tend to hide.
Pro tip: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals inside your fridge. They can leave behind strong odors and potentially contaminate food.
5. Clean the Door Seals
Wipe the door gaskets (seals) with a damp cloth and a bit of baking soda paste. This removes mildew and keeps the seal flexible, helping your fridge maintain its temperature.
6. Tackle the Exterior
Don’t forget the outside! Wipe down the doors, handles, and top of the fridge. For stainless steel, use a soft cloth and a specialized cleaner or a mixture of water and dish soap.
7. Replace and Organize
Once everything is dry, reassemble your fridge and return your food items. This is a great time to reorganize—group similar items together, use bins for snacks, and label shelves to maintain order.
Optional: Clean the Fridge Coils
If you want to go the extra mile, unplug the fridge and vacuum the coils (usually behind or underneath the unit). Dust buildup on coils makes your fridge work harder and use more energy. Cleaning them once or twice a year improves efficiency and can lower your energy bill.
Prevent Future Build-Up
Keep your fridge cleaner between deep cleans with these tips:
-
Wipe spills as soon as they happen
-
Use airtight containers for leftovers
-
Place a box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb odors
-
Do a quick scan weekly for expired items
Let Dust Bunnies Handle It for You
If deep cleaning your fridge sounds like a hassle, don’t worry—we’ve got it covered. At Dust Bunnies, we offer professional appliance cleaning services as part of our detailed deep cleaning packages. Whether you’re getting ready for a move, spring cleaning, or just want a sparkling fresh kitchen, our team is here to help.
Serving homeowners across Irving Texas, we use eco-friendly products and deliver a spotless finish every time.
Book a Deep Clean Today
Your fridge works hard—treat it to a thorough clean! Contact Dust Bunnies to schedule your deep cleaning service today.
📞 Call us at 972-254-8858
🌐 Visit https://dustbunniesinc.net to book online.