Doing a thorough spring cleaning every now and then is a necessary part of keeping one’s household clean as there’s plenty of things that regular DIY cleaning and even part-time maid services don’t touch on. At the top of this list is the refrigerator, which tends to accumulate minor spills and all sorts of food stains over time. Seeing as how the fridge plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, it’s only natural to keep it sanitary at all times. Below, we go over the key steps to freshen up your fridge and organise its contents.

1. Prep Your Cleaning Tools

Well begun is half done, so pause for a second and gather all the essential cleaning tools and materials you need before heading for the focus of your cleaning objective. Having everything ready and within reach ensures a streamlined process and a clean fridge before you know it. Some of the key items you’ll need are:

• All-purpose cleaner, mild detergent, and baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Scrubbing sponge
• Plastic scraper
• Microfibre cloths
• Cleaning brush
• Trash bags

2. Empty the Fridge (Including the Shelves and Other Components)

You’ll need to get everything out of the way before getting started on deep cleaning, so take out the contents of your fridge one by one and discard spoiled or expired foods as you go. Additionally, take care to wipe down each item and remove any residues that could leave new stains once you put everything back in again. Once done, detach the shelves and drawers next so you can get to every nook and cranny within the fridge.

3. Clean the Interior and the Removed Refrigerator Parts

Take your scrubbing sponge and use its soft side to remove loose debris before spraying a diluted solution of all-purpose cleaner on the entire interior. Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the surfaces and pay special attention to the corners since they tend to accumulate grime the most. If you encounter stuck food particles, take your trusty brush or scraper to dislodge them before wiping the spot clean.

Repeat the process for the shelves, drawers, and other removable parts. Let them soak in water for several minutes should they contain stuck food spots so you can dislodge them more easily using the plastic scraper.

If you encounter particularly touch stains, mix a solution of baking soda, mild detergent, and water using a 6:3:1 ratio. Apply it directly onto the area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then buff the stain away using the scrubbing sponge.

4. Don’t Forget to Wipe the Exterior

Once the interior is sorted, shift your attention to cleaning the outside of the fridge next. Most people tend to overlook this part during cleaning, but it’s essential to give it some TLC as well. Use your cleaning solution and microfibre cloth to wipe everything from top to bottom, including the handles, door seals, and any other features your unit may have.

5. Dry Everything Out and Deodorise Naturally

Use a fresh, dry cloth to eliminate any leftover cleaning solution before putting the shelves and drawers back into their proper places. Last but not least, place natural dedorisers like activated charcoal or baking soda in an open container on one of the shelves to eliminate any lingering odours. These work exceptionally well at absorbing bad smells so you can keep your fridge smelling clean for a long time.

6. Organise and Return Your Food Items

Now that your fridge is sparkling clean, it’s time to thoughtfully arrange its contents to keep things accessible and fresh. Start by grouping similar items, such as dairy, produce, condiments, and meats, and designating shelves or drawers for each category. Place frequently used items at eye level for easy access, while keeping less-used items on higher or lower shelves. This organisation boosts visibility, helping to avoid forgotten items and reduce food waste.

• Labels make a difference: Labels can be a simple yet effective solution for fridge maintenance. Label containers and even specific fridge sections to ensure everyone knows where items belong. This helps your household members put things back in place, keeping your fridge orderly without constant tidying.
• Invest in storage containers: Clear storage containers with snug lids are ideal for keeping items fresh while maintaining visibility. Use them for leftovers, prepped fruits and veggies, and other perishables. Label these containers to make locating and retrieving items a breeze, encouraging everyone to use and store items responsibly.
• Establish a maintenance routine: An organised fridge needs regular upkeep. Aim to do a quick fridge check once a month: remove expired items, wipe down surfaces, and rearrange where necessary. With this routine, your fridge will stay clutter-free and ready to support your meal planning and healthy habits.

Conclusion

A clean and organised fridge doesn’t just look great; it also plays a key role in reducing food waste, keeping items fresh, and streamlining your meal prep. With the right strategies—from grouping similar items and using labels to establishing regular maintenance—you can maintain a fridge that’s as functional as it is fresh. By making these simple habits a part of your routine, you’ll save time, preserve food quality, and create a more enjoyable kitchen experience.

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