How to Clean a Fridge with Vinegar: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping the refrigerator clean is a difficult task given how many different types of foods are stored in it on a daily basis. Although it is important for food safety, it also has other benefits like extending the life of your equipment and keeping your kitchen hygienic and pleasurable. While there are several cleaning products available, white vinegar is a natural, safe, and effective method that is available in every home for reducing odors and removing filth without bringing dangerous chemicals based cleaner into your home. In this article, we will walk you through the process of How To Clean A Fridge with Vinegar in a step-by-step fashion.

Why Use Vinegar to Clean Your Fridge?

Vinegar, especially white distilled vinegar, is an excellent cleaning agent due to its high pH level. It has antimicrobial agents’ characteristics and is capable of removing residue from minerals, grease, and filth. Furthermore, vinegar is also safe to use near food and does not leave any hazardous residue behind. It is also economical and widely available in every shopping store.

Materials You Will Need On How To Clean A Fridge with Vinegar

Before you begin your process of how to clean a fridge with vinegar, you have to gather the following materials:

• White distilled vinegar
• Warm water
• A spray bottle
• Soft microfiber cloths or sponges
• A toothbrush or small scrub brush
• A bowl or bucket
• Baking soda (optional)
• A drying towel

Step 1: Empty the Fridge

You can start by removing all the food from your refrigerator. Make sure to check the expiration dates and discard any items that are spoiled or past their prime date. Store usable items in a cooler or another refrigerator to keep them fresh while you clean the fridge.

Step 2: Remove Shelves and Drawers

Take out any removable shelves, drawers, and compartments from the fridge. It is a necessary step to make cleaning easier and more thorough in order to completely clean your fridge. After taking them out Set them aside for separate cleaning.

Step 3: Prepare a Vinegar Cleaning Solution

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. If you want to add a little bit more cleaning power for tougher stains, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture. Shake the bottle gently to combine all the ingredients inside effectively.

Step 4: Clean the Interior of the Fridge

1. Spray the vinegar solution generously inside the refrigerator, covering the walls, ceiling, and any fixed shelves.
2. Make sure that you allow the solution to sit for a few minutes to loosen grime and stains.
3. Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe down all surfaces. Start at the top and work your way down to avoid dripping onto already cleaned areas.
4. For stubborn stains or dried spills, use a toothbrush or small scrub brush. Dip it in the vinegar solution and gently scrub the affected area.

Step 5: Clean Shelves and Drawers

1. Place the removable shelves and drawers in a sink or large basin.
2. Spray them with the vinegar solution or immerse them in a mixture of vinegar and warm water.
3. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub all surfaces thoroughly.
4. Rinse them with clean water and dry with a towel before returning them to the fridge.

Step 6: Wipe Down Door Seals and Handles

The rubber door seals (gaskets) can harbor mold and dirt over time. Spray the vinegar solution onto the seals and use a cloth or toothbrush to clean between the folds. Pay attention to the door handles and external surfaces as well.

Step 7: Deodorize with Vinegar

Vinegar is also effective at removing odors that can be left behind with different foods. To keep your fridge smelling fresh, place a small bowl of vinegar inside and leave it for a few hours. Alternatively, soak a piece of bread or a cotton ball in vinegar and leave it in the fridge overnight.

Step 8: Final Wipe Down and Reassembly

Once all surfaces are clean, use a dry microfiber cloth or towel to remove any remaining moisture. Put the dry shelves, drawers, and compartments to their original places.

Step 9: Restock the Fridge

Before putting food back, wipe down any jars, bottles, and containers to remove any sticky residue on them so they don’t add up again. Organize your items neatly and properly, ensuring that you don’t overcrowd the fridge so that proper airflow can be maintained inside for effective cooling.

Additional Tips for Maintaining a Clean Fridge

• Clean up spills immediately: Wipe up any spills as soon as they happen to prevent them from hardening.
• Regular maintenance: Perform a quick wipe-down of shelves and handles weekly using a diluted vinegar solution.
• Use refrigerator-safe liners: Place washable liners on shelves and in drawers to make cleaning easier in the future.
• Control odors: Keep an open box of baking soda or a bowl of coffee grounds in the fridge to absorb odors.

Safety Precautions

• Avoid mixing vinegar with bleach or ammonia, as this creates dangerous fumes.
• Test a small, hidden area before using vinegar on sensitive materials or surfaces.

Conclusion

So, there you have it now you know How To Clean A Fridge with Vinegar is done. It is an easy, cost-effective, and eco-friendly method that ensures your appliance and food remains hygienic and fresh.  You don’t have to buy an expensive cleaner for a job that you can do at home with your own products. This not only saves you money but also helps you in the future and save time.

However, if you still are unsure of the results or if there is any odor still coming from fridge it is time you contact professionals for the service as they can inspect closely and will do all the necessary steps like completely unpack the fridge for tracing the culprit and eliminate it.