How do you clean a fridge?

Written by Marijn

Edited on

19 May 2025

·

14:41

How do you clean a fridge?

Cleaning your fridge: we understand that it's not one of your hobbies. But if you clean the inside and outside and check the drainage once every 3 months, it's just a matter of maintenance. Read how to clean your fridge in 6 simple steps here.

Cleaning fridge

Get started cleaning your fridge

Before you get started, take the connector from the socket so you won't damage the fridge while cleaning it.

  • Step 1: empty the fridge
  • Step 2: make some soapy water
  • Step 3: check the water drain
  • Step 4: clean the interior
  • Step 5: clean the exterior
  • Step 6: fill the fridge
Coolbluer empties fridge

Step 1: empty the fridge

Take your groceries from the fridge and store them in a cooler. If it's cold enough outside, you can put your food outside or in the fridge. Also make sure to take out the separate parts from the fridge. Think of drawers, racks, and shelves. Do you have a freezer compartment in your fridge? You need to clean this regularly as well.

How do you clean a freezer?
Fridge with cleaning bucket

Step 2: make soapy water

It's best to clean your fridge with warm water and some neutral soap or all-purpose cleaner. Don't use abrasives or aggressive cleaners such as bleach or thinner. This is harmful for the interior of your fridge. You can also clean your fridge with fridge cleaner.

Drain hose in fridge

Step 3: check the water drainage

As soon as the fridge is empty, start cleaning the water drain. The opening of this is at the bottom on the inside of the fridge. Is the drain clogged? Use a cotton swab or skewer. You prevent a clogged drain by not placing food near the entrance of the drain. It's also better to keep the back wall of the fridge clear.

Coolbluer cleans interior

Step 4: clean the inside

Remove the loose parts and the inside of the fridge. Don't forget the rubbers of the fridge door. Dirt easily accumulates here. After you cleaned everything, clean the fridge with a clean, dry cloth.

Exterior fridge

Step 5: clean the outside

After cleaning the inside, it's time for the outside of the fridge. Wipe the outside with the soapy water and dry the outside with a clean cloth. Do you have a fridge with a ventilation grid at the back? We recommend that you clean it once a year. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush for this.

Organize the fridge

Step 6: put things in the fridge

Now that your fridge is completely clean, all you have to do is organize your fridge. Put the loose parts back in their place and put the food back in the fridge. When your fridge is completely organized, you put the plug in again.

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Article by Marijn

Fridge Expert.

Marijn