A deep-cleaned refrigerator doesn’t just look better — it also helps reduce odors, keeps shelves and drawers sanitary, and supports safer food storage. Appliance and food safety guides recommend removing food, washing removable parts, cleaning interior surfaces, and wiping spills promptly as part of good refrigerator maintenance. Source Source
Image source: Appliance Connection
Why Deep Cleaning Your Refrigerator Matters
According to Whirlpool, cleaning the inside of a refrigerator helps eliminate odors and stains and can help clear away mold spores or bacteria that may spoil food. USDA FSIS also says that one important step in keeping food safe is keeping the refrigerator clean and wiping up spills immediately. Source Source
How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator?
Whirlpool recommends cleaning and maintaining your refrigerator every three months, or quarterly. Regular seasonal cleaning can help keep it organized and easier to manage. Source
What You’ll Need
Based on the appliance guides reviewed, these are useful supplies for a refrigerator deep clean:
- Dish soap
- Warm or hot water
- Baking soda
- Clean towels or cloths
- Sponge or rag
- Vacuum
- Long soft-bristled brush
- Disinfectant cleaner or disinfectant wipes for certain surfaces and containers Source Source
Step 1: Remove Everything from the Refrigerator
Start by taking all food out of both the refrigerator and freezer. Remove drawers, shelves, and other removable parts. Whirlpool says to place food in coolers while cleaning and to throw away spoiled or expired food. GE Appliances also recommends removing food containers and removable elements before you begin. Source Source
Pro tip:
Whirlpool advises not to let food sit outside the refrigerator for more than two hours to help avoid spoilage. Source
Step 2: Wash Shelves and Drawers
Once the fridge is empty, wash removable shelves and drawers in warm, soapy water. Whirlpool says removable items such as shelving or drawers can be cleaned this way, while GE adds that oversized pieces can be washed in a sink or bathtub if needed. Both sources recommend drying them thoroughly before putting them back. Source Source
Step 3: Clean the Inside Walls, Ceiling, and Bottom
Whirlpool recommends wiping down the interior walls, ceiling, and bottom of the refrigerator with warm water and dish soap. For tougher stains and spills, Whirlpool says vinegar or baking soda can help. USDA FSIS also recommends cleaning refrigerator surfaces thoroughly with hot, soapy water, then rinsing. Source Source
Baking soda cleaning solution
Whirlpool specifically recommends mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with one cup of hot water to wipe down the inside of your refrigerator, especially in areas that come into contact with food. Source
Step 4: Scrub Containers and Sticky Spills
GE Appliances recommends throwing away expired or old food containers and scrubbing containers that have stains or spills with soap and water, then disinfecting them with wipes or cleaning sprays. This helps keep residue from being returned to a freshly cleaned fridge. Source
Step 5: Dry Everything Thoroughly
Before reassembling your refrigerator, make sure all shelves, drawers, and interior surfaces are fully dry. Whirlpool and GE both emphasize drying components thoroughly before putting everything back into place. Source Source
Image source: Appliance Connection
Step 6: Clean Underneath the Refrigerator
A true deep clean should also include the area underneath or behind the appliance. Whirlpool recommends cleaning the condenser coils regularly, if accessible, using a vacuum and a long soft-bristled brush. Keeping coils cleaner can help regulate the fridge’s temperature. Source
Step 7: Wipe the Outside, Handles, and Door Seals
After cleaning the inside, Whirlpool recommends wiping the door seals, doors, and handles with a mix of mild dish soap and water, then drying them thoroughly. Door seals are especially important because buildup there can affect cleanliness and overall maintenance. Source
Best Cleaners to Use on a Refrigerator
Based on the appliance guides:
- Dish soap and warm water for general cleaning
- Baking soda and hot water for food-contact areas and odor control
- Vinegar and warm water for certain spills and stuck-on residue
- Disinfectant spray or wipes for select surfaces and containers, according to product directions Source Source
What Not to Use
Whirlpool says bleach is not a recommended cleaning solution for refrigerators because it can harm materials and risk contaminating food. Whirlpool also advises against abrasive cleaning tools, harsh cleansers, flammable fluids, and cleansers containing petroleum products. USDA FSIS similarly warns against solvent cleaning agents and abrasives that may damage the finish or leave chemical tastes on food or ice cubes. Source Source
Quick Tips to Keep Your Refrigerator Clean Longer
- Wipe up spills immediately
- Toss expired food during weekly checks
- Clean shelves and drawers before residue hardens
- Use baking soda for odor control between deep cleans
- Schedule a full clean every three months Source Source
FAQ: Deep Cleaning a Refrigerator
What is the best homemade cleaner for a refrigerator?
Whirlpool recommends a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda and one cup of hot water for wiping down the inside of the refrigerator. Source
Can I use bleach inside my fridge?
Whirlpool says bleach is not recommended for refrigerator cleaning. Source
How often should I deep clean my refrigerator?
Whirlpool recommends cleaning and maintaining the refrigerator every three months. Source
What should I do about spills?
USDA FSIS says to wipe up spills immediately and clean surfaces thoroughly with hot, soapy water, then rinse. Source
Helpful Links
Here are a couple of useful references you can include in the post:
- Whirlpool: How to Clean a Refrigerator
- USDA FSIS: Refrigeration & Food Safety
- GE Appliances: Our Best Refrigerator Cleaning Tips
Final Thoughts
Deep cleaning your refrigerator is one of the simplest ways to keep your kitchen fresher and your food storage more organized. If you empty it completely, wash removable parts, clean interior surfaces properly, and tackle the outside and coils too, you’ll have a fridge that looks better and is easier to maintain. Source