A sticky spill on a refrigerator shelf can quickly turn into a dried-on mess, while forgotten leftovers may leave odors that linger long after the food is removed. A quick wipe can handle everyday messes, but a thorough refrigerator cleaning requires attention to the shelves, drawers, door seals, and hidden corners where residue tends to collect.
Knowing how to deep clean a fridge also means protecting the food inside it. Before you start, plan where to store perishable items, choose cleaning products suitable for your appliance, and allow enough time to clean and dry the interior before returning the food.
This guide walks you through the process, explains how to remove stubborn spills and unpleasant odors, and shares practical maintenance tips to help keep your refrigerator clean between deep cleans.
What Is the Best Way to Deep Clean a Fridge?
The most effective approach is to remove the food, take out removable shelves and drawers, wash the interior with warm water and mild dish soap when permitted by the appliance manufacturer, and clean the door seals and exterior surfaces. Rinse away soap residue with a clean damp cloth, dry the surfaces thoroughly, and return the food promptly.
Keep perishable food at 40°F (4°C) or below. Avoid leaving perishable items at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour when the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Use a cooler with ice or another safe cold-storage option while cleaning.
For additional guidance, consult the USDA’s refrigeration and food-safety recommendations.
What You Need Before Cleaning Your Refrigerator
Gather your supplies before removing the food so the cleaning process stays organized.
You will typically need:
- A soft microfiber cloth or nonabrasive sponge.
- Mild dish soap, if approved by the refrigerator manufacturer.
- Clean warm water.
- A soft cleaning brush for corners and removable components.
- Clean towels for drying.
- A cooler with ice or another suitable cold-storage option for perishable food.
Check your refrigerator’s manual before using specialized cleaners, disinfectants, or tools. Some interior surfaces, coatings, gaskets, and finishes require specific care.
Avoid scouring powders, steel wool, harsh solvents, and abrasive pads that may damage the refrigerator’s interior.
Never mix cleaning products. Combining bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or other chemicals can create hazardous reactions.
How to Deep Clean a Fridge Step by Step
Step 1: Store the Food Safely
Before cleaning, transfer perishable food to a cooler with ice or another suitable cold-storage location.
Check food labels and discard items that are spoiled or no longer safe to eat. If you are cleaning after a food recall, follow the specific instructions issued by the relevant food-safety authority rather than treating the situation as an ordinary spill.
Work efficiently so that perishable food remains cold while the refrigerator is being cleaned.
Step 2: Remove Shelves and Drawers
Take out removable shelves, drawers, and other components that the manufacturer identifies as removable for cleaning.
Let cold glass components reach room temperature before washing them. Sudden temperature changes can cause some glass to crack.
Wash removable parts with warm water and mild dish soap when permitted. Use a soft sponge to loosen residue, rinse thoroughly, and let the components dry completely before reinstalling them.
Do not force shelves or drawers out of place. Consult the appliance manual if a component does not release easily.
Step 3: Clean the Refrigerator Interior
Start at the top and work downward so that loosened dirt does not fall onto areas you have already cleaned.
Use a soft cloth dampened with warm soapy water, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay attention to:
- Interior walls and corners.
- Shelf supports and ledges.
- The base of the refrigerator compartment.
- Areas around removable drawers.