Buying a new refrigerator is always a joyful event, marking the beginning of a comfortable life with fresh food. However, immediately after the unit is delivered to the kitchen, a reasonable question arises about the initial treatment of the internal chambers. Factory packaging, transportation dust and residues of production materials require immediate removal before loading food.
Many owners make the mistake of putting equipment into operation without prior sanitization. This can lead to a lingering chemical odor that will subsequently permeate the food. Proper preparation internal surfaces is the key to hygienic operation and the absence of foreign tastes in the future.
There are many myths about which products are suitable for this procedure, and which can irreversibly damage plastic or rubber seals. In this article we will look at time-tested methods that are safe for any materials used in modern refrigeration equipment. You will learn how to turn new equipment into a completely ready-to-use device.
Why is primary washing of a new refrigerator necessary?
The production process of household appliances is not sterile. The internal chambers of the refrigerator, despite the original packaging, are in contact with air containing industrial dust and microparticles. In addition, during assembly, various lubricants and technical fluids are used, traces of which may remain on the walls.
Another reason for mandatory washing is the specific smell of new plastic. ABS plastic other polymers from which internal shelves and drawers are made can emit volatile substances upon first contact with warm air. If you do not eliminate this odor before turning on the compressor, the air circulation inside the chamber will preserve the odor, and it will be much more difficult to get rid of it later.
⚠️ Attention: Ignoring the washing step can lead to the rapid proliferation of bacteria on the remnants of factory lubricant, which is especially dangerous for refrigeration chambers where products are stored without heat treatment.
It is also worth considering the human factor: during loading, unloading and installation, the equipment was touched by the hands of many people. Dirt, sweat and germs from the hands of movers and salespeople inevitably end up on handles and interior surfaces. Therefore, disinfection is not just a formality, but a necessary safety measure for the health of your family.
Finally, wet cleaning allows you to visually inspect the internal surfaces for microcracks, chips or manufacturing defects that could be hidden by packaging film. Detection of defects before turning on the device will simplify the procedure for exchanging goods under warranty, if the need arises.
List of safe cleaning agents for plastic
Choosing a cleaning agent is a critically important step, since aggressive chemistry can damage the structure of the plastic, making it cloudy or sticky. Modern refrigerators, be they models LG, Bosch or Indesit, require a delicate approach. The ideal solution is the means at hand that are always in the kitchen.
The leader among safe cleaners is ordinary table vinegar in combination with water. The acidic environment perfectly neutralizes the alkaline residues of factory detergents and kills most bacteria. To prepare the solution, just mix water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio. This product also effectively combats the primary odor of plastic.
The second effective option is baking soda. It acts as a mild abrasive and an excellent odor absorbent. By dissolving a couple of tablespoons of soda in a liter of warm water, you will get a safe product that does not leave streaks and is safe even for rubber door seals.
- 🧼 Laundry soap: Grate the block and dissolve the shavings in warm water until you obtain a weak solution. Excellent degreasing of surfaces.
- 🍋 Citric acid: Dissolve a bag of acid in water. This product not only disinfects, but also leaves a fresh citrus scent.
- 💧 Micellar water: As a last resort, you can use regular micellar water without fragrance, which is intended for sensitive skin.
It is strictly not recommended to use products containing chlorine, strong acids or abrasive particles. Chlorine can react with the plastic, changing its color, and abrasives will leave micro-scratches in which bacteria and mold will accumulate in the future.
⚠️ Attention: Never use acetone, solvents or highly concentrated alcohol-containing liquids. They can melt the glossy coating of the inner walls or make the plastic brittle.
Step-by-step instructions for washing the refrigerator
The process of preparing the refrigerator for the first start should be carried out systematically and consistently. First of all, it is necessary to allow the equipment to acclimatize if it is delivered during the cold season. This usually takes 2 to 4 hours, which will allow the condensation inside the compressor to evaporate.
After the refrigerator has warmed up to room temperature, remove all removable parts: shelves, drawers, egg trays and containers on the door. It is better to wash them separately in a bathtub or large basin to avoid large amounts of water flowing into the drainage system and onto the technical components of the main body.
To wash the main body, use a soft sponge or microfiber. The fabric must be wrung out well so that water does not flow down the walls in streams. Movements should be smooth, without strong pressure. Pay special attention to the corners of the chambers and the places where the plastic joins.
☑️ Checklist for preparing the refrigerator
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cotton cloth or paper towels. Remaining moisture can lead to the formation of an ice crust upon first start-up or become a breeding ground for the development of mold in hard-to-reach places.
Rubber seals on the doors require special attention. They need to be wiped especially carefully, pushing the folds apart to remove factory dust. However, you should not stretch the rubber or use hot water, as this can deform the seal and break the seal of the chamber.
Removing factory smells and disinfection
Even after a thorough wash, a new refrigerator may retain a slight technical smell. To completely eliminate it, there are proven methods that do not require the purchase of expensive chemicals. The easiest way is to ventilate.
After you have washed and dried the refrigerator, leave its doors open for several hours, or better yet, overnight. A draft will help ventilate volatile compounds from the plastic. If the odor persists, you can use natural absorbents.
Activated carbon is an effective remedy. Grind 10-15 tablets into powder and scatter it on a saucer, leaving it inside the chamber for a day. Coal has a porous structure that perfectly absorbs foreign odors. Freshly ground coffee or silica gel has a similar effect.
Folk methods of combating odor
Instead of activated carbon, you can use black bread, cut into large pieces and laid out on shelves. A vinegar solution left in an open container inside a closed refrigerator for 10-12 hours also works great. After the procedure, the chamber must be ventilated.
For disinfection, you can use a solution of hydrogen peroxide. Wipe the inner walls with a rag soaked in a 3% peroxide solution. This substance will not only kill germs, but also will not leave any odor after drying, unlike chlorine-containing analogues.
Some users try to mask the smell with new fragrances or air fresheners. This should not be done, as chemical fragrances can react with food products, especially oil, dairy products and meat, ruining their taste.
Features of caring for different types of coatings
Modern refrigerators may have different internal coatings. Budget models are often made of ordinary white plastic, which is quite durable, but prone to absorbing odors. More expensive models can be equipped with an antibacterial coating based on silver ions or special polymers.
For models with antibacterial coating, such as some series Samsung with technology Silver Nano, it is important not to use products that can create a film on the surface. Aggressive surfactants (surfactants) can reduce the effectiveness of the antibacterial layer.
Glass shelves require care when washing. A sudden change in temperature (for example, washing with hot water after storage in the cold) can lead to cracking. Always use water at room temperature or slightly warm.
| Surface type | Recommended product | Prohibited actions |
|---|---|---|
| White plastic | Soda, vinegar solution | Rub with the hard side of the sponge |
| Tempered glass | Glass cleaner (without ammonia) | Sharp temperature changes |
| Rubber seal | Warm soapy water | Use of oil or alcohol |
| Stainless steel (inside) | Special products for stainless steel | Cleaning along the grain (only across) |
If there are stainless steel elements inside the refrigerator, they need to be wiped strictly along the texture of the metal so as not to leave chaotic scratches that will catch your eye. For polishing, you can use special oil for stainless steel, but in minimal quantities.
Common mistakes when starting up for the first time
The most common mistake is turning on the refrigerator immediately after defrosting or delivery, if it was standing horizontally. The compressor oil must drain into the crankcase, otherwise water hammer and engine failure may occur. The refrigerator must stand in a horizontal position for at least 12-24 hours.
The second mistake is loading food immediately after turning it on. An empty refrigerator takes time (usually 2-4 hours) to reach operating temperature and stabilize operating mode. If you put food in right away, the compressor will work with overload, trying to cool the warm volume.
The third mistake is using excessive amounts of water when washing. Water that gets into the technical openings at the bottom of the chamber (where the evaporator outlet or drainage is often located) can freeze and block the condensate drainage system, which will lead to the formation of puddles under the drawers in the future.
Also, do not neglect the manufacturer's instructions. The model manual Haier or Liebherr may contain specific instructions regarding the care of specific types of panels, ignoring which will lead to loss of warranty.
⚠️ Attention: Specifications and maintenance requirements may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. Always check the official user manual that came with your device.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Can a new refrigerator be washed with dishwashing detergent?
You can use regular dishwashing detergent, but only in a very weak concentration and with repeated use rinsing. The main problem with such products is abundant foam and complex washable surfactants, which can leave a chemical aftertaste. It is better to choose simpler solutions based on soda or vinegar.
How long should you ventilate the refrigerator after washing?
The optimal time for ventilating a new refrigerator with the doors open is from 6 to 12 hours. This time is enough for residual moisture to evaporate and the smell of new packaging and plastic to disappear. If the smell persists, the procedure can be repeated, leaving the refrigerator for a day.
Is it necessary to remove the protective film inside the refrigerator?
Yes, all shipping films, stickers and protective coatings must be completely removed before the first use. A film left on the inner walls or evaporator can melt, catch fire or disrupt air circulation, which will lead to equipment breakdown.
How to wash yellow spots on old plastic inside?
If the plastic has turned yellow over time, you can use a paste of soda and water, applying it for 30-40 minutes. Hydrogen peroxide also works effectively. However, it is worth remembering that deep changes in the color of plastic can be irreversible and indicate aging of the material.