How to Clean a Fridge, Freezer & More

Keep your fridge fresh and organized with these easy steps for cleaning your refrigerator. Learn how to remove spills and odors effectively.
Ready to tackle that fridge and make it sparkle? Grab your Clorox™ cleaner and let's dive into the ultimate fridge refresh! A fridge can get dirty inside from food spills, leaks, expired items and everyday crumbs. Around the fridge, dust, pet hair and moisture buildup can attract grime, especially near vents, coils and the floor area. Regular cleaning helps prevent odors and mold and enhances cooling efficiency.
How often to clean your fridge
You probably reach in the fridge several times a day, and so do any of your roommates or family members. A once-a-week wipe-down with Clorox™ Free & Clear Cleaning Wipes will help keep messes and smudges to a minimum. Start by emptying the shelves, then give all surfaces a pass with the wipes. If you have more stubborn food spills, spray Clorox™ Free & Clear Multi-Surface Cleaner Spray on soiled surfaces and let stand for 30 seconds, then wipe clean. Regular cleaning may help keep your appliances running smoothly and your kitchen sanitary. For a seasonal deep clean, check out the steps below for using Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach.
What to use to clean a fridge
Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach
Guantes protectores
Toallas de papel
Balde / cubeta de plástico
Taza de medir
Esponja
Steps to clean non-food-contact surfaces inside the fridge & shelves
Vacía los estantes
Retira todos los alimentos del refrigerador. Verifica las fechas de vencimiento mientras los sacas y reserva los artículos que quieres conservar.
ConsejoLimpia y desinfecta por partes para que el trabajo sea más manejable: comienza por los estantes, luego limpia los compartimientos de la puerta y por último las gavetas de los vegetales.
Prepara la solución de blanqueador
Vierte 1 galón de agua (16 tazas) en la cubeta de plástico y luego agrégale 1/3 de taza de blanqueador.
Realiza una limpieza previa de la parte interior
Si es necesario, usa una esponja humedecida con agua para limpiar la mugre y la suciedad visible en los estantes y otras superficies antes de realizar el paso de desinfección.
Aplica la solución de blanqueador desinfectante
Con los guantes puestos, aplica la solución de blanqueador y agua en las superficies del refrigerador, incluyendo las paredes, agarradero y sello de la puerta, usando la esponja. Vuelve a aplicar la solución de blanqueador según sea necesario para mantener las superficies mojadas durante 6 minutos para desinfectarlas.
ConsejoSi quieres eliminar el moho y los hongos dentro del refrigerador, deja que la solución de blanqueador y agua esté en contacto con las superficies por 10 minutos.
Enjuaga el refrigerador
Enjuaga la esponja con agua limpia y luego pásala nuevamente sobre las superficies para enjuagarlas.
ConsejoPuedes desinfectar y enjuagar en el fregadero los estantes y compartimientos del refrigerador que sean removibles.
Deja que se sequen al aire
Deja que las superficies se sequen al aire antes de volver a colocar los alimentos dentro del refrigerador.
How to clean the outside of a fridge
To keep the outside of your fridge looking great, use Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes to give it a wipe down every week, specifically targeting the handles and any water dispenser buttons. Every few months, use Clorox™ Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner to remove fingerprints, smudges and dust. Don't forget to clean around and under the fridge to clear away any dirt and debris, and give any magnets a good wipe to get rid of dust.
How to clean mold from your fridge & freezer
To tackle mold in your fridge or freezer, start by unplugging your appliance and removing all the food. Allow the appliance to come to room temperature prior to treatment. Mix a solution of water and bleach or use Clorox™ Clean-Up Multi-Surface Cleaner + Bleach, spray 4 to 6 inches from surface until thoroughly wet, and let stand visibly wet for 5 minutes. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly before plugging it back in and restocking.
How to clean the fridge water dispenser
Keeping your fridge water dispenser clean is essential for fresh-tasting water. Here's how to do it: Turn off the water supply. Mix a solution of water and bleach per the ratios listed above, and scrub the dispenser nozzle and surrounding areas with a small brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaner residue, then turn the water supply back on.
How to clean under & behind the fridge
Cleaning under and behind your fridge is easier than you might think! Just unplug the fridge and carefully pull it away from the wall. Use a vacuum or broom to remove dust and debris, then wipe down the floor and walls with a mild cleaner. Regularly doing this helps keep your kitchen clean and your fridge running efficiently.
How to clean a mini fridge
Start by unplugging it and removing all the contents. Wipe down the interior with Clorox™ Free & Clear Cleaning Wipes, paying extra attention to any spills or stains. For stubborn spots, use Clorox™ Free & Clear Multi-Surface Cleaner Spray as directed, then dry thoroughly before plugging it back in and restocking. Regular cleaning keeps your mini fridge fresh and ready for use.
How to clean a chest freezer
To clean a chest freezer, start by unplugging it and removing all the contents. Wipe down the interior with a mixture of warm water and mild soap, or use Clorox™ Free & Clear Multi-Surface Cleaner Spray. Then, dry thoroughly with a clean cloth. For stubborn stains or odors, use a solution of baking soda and water, and make sure to leave the lid open for a while to air it out before plugging it back in.
Tips to clean your fridge with bleach
- Not sure what bleach-to-water ratio you need? Check out our handy chart.
- Use freshly mixed solutions. Bleach degrades over time when diluted.
- Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or any other cleaner; doing so can create dangerous fumes.
- Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation during use.
Preguntas frecuentes
- How do you clean refrigerator coils without a brush?
If you don't have a coil brush, you can first try gently using a vacuum cleaner with a narrow detailing nozzle attachment to remove dust and grime. Then wipe the coils with a dry microfiber cloth or use compressed air to blow out hard-to-reach dirt. Just be sure to unplug the fridge first and avoid using anything too wet or abrasive.
- Can you put fridge shelves in the dishwasher?
Check your appliance manual first, as some fridges are designed with glass shelves and removable parts that can go in the dishwasher. Be aware that high heat and strong dishwasher detergents can sometimes damage shelves, especially if they have protective coatings or plastic trim. If you're unsure, it's safest to wash fridge shelves by hand with warm, soapy water.
- How do you clean the water line in a fridge?
First, unplug the fridge and shut off the water supply. Then flush the line by running a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water through it, letting it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Regularly cleaning the water line helps remove hard water mineral deposits, mold and bacteria.
- How do you disinfect a fridge?
To disinfect a fridge, start by removing all food contents and take out the shelves. Let appliance rise to room temperature. Then, scrub surfaces with Clorox™ Disinfecting All Purpose Cleaner to remove dirt and grime. After cleaning, let sit for a few minutes, then rinse and dry. Regular disinfecting helps kill germs, prevent odors and keep your fridge safe for food storage.