How to Clean Your Refrigerator: A Simple Guide for Busy Orange County Homes.
- Alberto Huet
- 27 minutes ago
- 5 min read
We know how fast-paced life can be in Orange County. Between work, family, school drop-offs, and enjoying the local lifestyle, it's easy for home maintenance to fall to the bottom of your to-do list. But one chore you shouldn't overlook is fridge cleaning. A clean refrigerator isn't just about appearances; it's essential for food safety, health, and organization.
If you're wondering how to clean refrigerator surfaces quickly and effectively—or just want it handled by professionals—this guide is for you. We'll walk you through simple steps, helpful tips, and let you know how Polanco's House Cleaning Services can help.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR REFRIGERATOR: REGULAR MAINTENANE MATTERS.
Your fridge works 24/7, storing everything from leftovers to fresh produce. Over time, spills, odors, and expired items build up, creating an unsanitary environment. Cleaning it regularly helps:
Prevent bacteria and mold from contaminating your food.
Eliminate bad odors that linger.
Extend the life of your appliance.
Improve organization and reduce food waste.
Experts recommend a deep clean fridge session every 3-4 months, with light cleanups weekly.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR FRIDGE STEP BY STEP.
Here are expert-approved steps from Whirlpool and Better Homes & Gardens, adapted for busy homeowners:
Step 1: Empty the Fridge.
Take everything out and place perishables in a cooler with ice. Toss expired or spoiled items. This clears space for a proper deep cleaning.
Step 2: Remove Shelves and Drawers.
Take out all removable components and let them warm to room temperature before washing. Wash them in warm, soapy water and let them dry completely.
Step 3: Clean Interior Surfaces.
Use a mix of two tablespoons baking soda with one quart of warm water. This natural fridge cleaning solution is food-safe and removes stains and odors. Wipe down all walls, shelves, bins, and door seals.
Tip: Use a toothbrush or small scrub brush to clean tight spaces like shelf seams or door gasket folds.
Step 4: Tackle Fridge Odors.
Place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of coffee grounds inside to absorb smells. For stubborn odors, use a vinegar-water solution or place lemon slices on a small plate.
Step 5: Dry and Reassemble.
Wipe all surfaces dry with a microfiber cloth. Once shelves and bins are fully dry, return them to the fridge.
Step 6: Organize as You Restock.
Before putting food back, wipe down containers and organize items by type (e.g., dairy, produce, leftovers). Use clear bins or labels to keep things tidy.
Best Safe Products to Clean Your Fridge.
When cleaning a refrigerator, it's important to use products that are effective yet safe for food zones and your family's health. Here are some of the best non-toxic options:
Baking Soda + Water: A classic combo that neutralizes odors and gently lifts grime without harsh chemicals.
White Vinegar + Water: A natural disinfectant that helps kill bacteria and mold while breaking down sticky spills.
Castile Soap: A vegetable-based, biodegradable soap that’s gentle yet effective for wiping down shelves and bins.
Lemon Juice: Adds antibacterial properties and a fresh scent. Great when combined with vinegar or baking soda.
Microfiber Cloths: Avoid paper towels and instead use reusable microfiber cloths to lift dirt without scratching surfaces.
Avoid cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or strong artificial fragrances inside the fridge—residue can contaminate food or cause allergic reactions. If you're unsure about a product, stick with natural or eco-certified options.
Bonus Tips for Maintaining a Clean Fridge
Wipe up spills right away to avoid sticky messes.
Store raw meat in leak-proof containers on the bottom shelf.
Keep a weekly checklist to toss expired foods.
Vacuum refrigerator coils twice a year to improve efficiency.
Refrigerator Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance.
Keeping your fridge clean is just part of the picture—regular maintenance ensures it runs efficiently and lasts longer. Here are a few essential upkeep tips:
Clean the Coils: Dust and pet hair can build up on the condenser coils (usually behind or beneath the fridge), making the appliance work harder. Unplug the fridge and use a coil brush or vacuum attachment to clean the coils every 6 months.
Check and Replace Gaskets: The rubber seal around the door (gasket) should be cleaned regularly with warm, soapy water. If you notice cracks or it no longer seals tightly, it might need replacing to maintain energy efficiency.
Test the Interior Light: Make sure your fridge and freezer lights turn off when the doors close. A faulty switch can waste energy and shorten the bulb’s life. Replace bulbs with appliance-rated LED lights as needed.
Defrost the Freezer (if needed): If your freezer doesn’t have auto-defrost, manually defrost it when frost builds up more than a quarter inch. Too much frost reduces efficiency.
Set the Right Temperature: Keep your fridge at or below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) for optimal food safety.
Check the Drip Pan and Drain Hole: Some models have a drip tray under the fridge that collects condensation. Clean it regularly to prevent mold and odors. Also check the interior drain hole to make sure it's not clogged.
A little regular care can save you from costly repairs and keep your appliance in top condition.
how to clean your refrigerator if you have recalled food items according to the centers of disease control and prevention (CDC)?
First it is important to throw out food. Germs in the recalled food could spread in all the fridge (including drawers and shelves). Now, follow the next steps:
Throw Out Old Food. Dispose of expired, moldy, or questionable items before you start. This prevents cross-contamination and clears space for cleaning.
Empty and Remove Shelves/Drawers. Take out all removable components and place perishables in a cooler to stay fresh during cleaning.
Wash with Hot, Soapy Water. Clean the interior walls, shelves, and bins with hot, soapy water. Rinse and dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
Sanitize Surfaces. Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid bleach with 1 gallon of water to sanitize surfaces. Apply to cleaned areas and let sit for a few minutes before wiping dry.
Return Food and Maintain. Check that containers are clean before restocking. Label leftovers and store raw meats on the bottom shelf to avoid drips.
These steps help reduce the spread of bacteria like Listeria and keep your fridge food-safe.
Professional Refrigerator Cleaning in Orange County- Don't have time? let us handle it!
We get it—Orange County residents are always on the move. If fridge cleaning feels like just another chore, our team can take care of it for you. At Polanco’s House Cleaning Services, we include refrigerator cleaning as part of our Deep Cleaning Service.
Our trained professionals follow safe, effective techniques using non-toxic, food-safe products. Whether your fridge needs a light refresh or a serious deep clean, we’ve got it covered.
Looking for fridge cleaning near me in Orange County? We’re just a call away.
Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Have questions about cleaning your fridge—or want to know if your appliance needs a professional touch? Don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our friendly team is always ready to offer guidance or schedule a service.
Polanco’s House Cleaning Services OC | Expert Home & Fridge Cleaning
Serving Orange County homeowners with reliable, friendly cleaning services. Let us help you enjoy a cleaner, healthier home without the hassle.
Call us today or book online to schedule your Deep Cleaning Service.
Check more information about our Kitchen Cleaning Service during our Deep Cleaning Service: Kitchen Cleaning.
Some of the sources we use to create this blog post article are:
Website: Better Homes & Garden.
Refrigerator Both Inside and Out.
Website: Whirlpool.
How To Clean Your Refrigerator in 4 Single Steps.
Website: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) .gov
5 Steps To Clean Your Refrigerator.
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