Cleaning the refrigerator with chemicals is not the best idea and many people avoid it (rightly). The main problem is that aggressive cleaning agents can react with food and change their taste, smell, appearance, and last but not least their nutritional value. Therefore, we recommend home methods – equally effective, but much safer. The basis is water, vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.
Refrigerator should be cleaned regularly
The dirty refrigerator can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold and unpleasant odors. Food residues, moisture and leaking packaging support the multiplication of microorganisms that can penetrate food and affect our health. Regular refrigerator cleaning helps maintain stored hygienic and fresh products, But it also has a positive effect on the life of the appliance itself and its effectiveness.
Safe ways to keep the refrigerator clean
For effective and safe cleaning of the refrigerator, it is worth using the natural products you can find in your home. Not only do they effectively remove dirt, they are also safe for food.
1. Vinegar water – Natural disinfection
Vinegar is an excellent cleaning agent that removes bacteria, mold and unpleasant odors. Just mix 3 tablespoons of vinegar with 1 liter of water and then wipe the inside of the refrigerator with a damp cloth. You can use undiluted vinegar for more resistant stains.
2. Soda – a reliable cleaning agent
Baking soda effectively removes stains and neutralizes odor. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a liter of water and clean the refrigerator. For durable stains you can prepare a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stains, let it act for a few minutes and then wipe with a damp cloth.
3. Lemon juice – natural freshness
The lemon has antibacterial properties and perfectly removes unpleasant odors. Just mix the juice of three lemons with half a glass of warm water and wash the inside of the refrigerator.
How to clean the refrigerator?
Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains to ensure cleaning safety. Wipe the refrigerator door first. Select all foods – check their consumption date and throw away all that have gone wrong. Remove shelves and drawers – wash them separately in warm water with vinegar, baking soda or lemon. Wash the inside of the refrigerator – Wash all surfaces with home cleaning agent of your choice.
Dry the inside of the refrigerator – use a dry cloth to prevent moisture and mold. Place back shelves and drawers – make sure they are properly placed. Turn on the refrigerator and store the products – it is good to sort the food to prevent future contamination.
There is no fixed rule of how often to clean the refrigerator, but it is worth taking a certain schedule. At least once a month, make a thorough cleaning of the entire interior and wipe the shelves once a week and remove persistent food residues. And, of course, remove dirt and spilled fluids continuously.
It is good to sort food to prevent future contamination.