An unpleasant smell in the refrigerator is not just discomfort, but a signal of the growth of bacteria that can spoil fresh food. The appearance of a persistent “aroma” is often associated with spilled liquids that have flowed into hard-to-reach places, or a forgotten piece of spoiled meat. Before looking for how to wash the inside of the refrigerator, it is necessary to eliminate the source of contamination, and only then carry out disinfection.
In this article we will analyze proven cleaning methods that are safe for various types of surfaces, be it plastic, glass or rubber seals. You will learn which folk remedies work better than store-bought chemicals, and how to prevent the reappearance of burning. The right approach will allow you to quickly return freshness to your equipment.
Primary preparation and defrosting of the chamber
The first and most important step before any general cleaning is to completely disconnect the equipment from the power supply. Safety should come first, since contact of water with electrical components is unacceptable. Remove all food, shelves and drawers to gain access to the interior walls.
If your model does not have a system No Frost, a complete defrost will be required. Leave the doors open for at least 2-3 hours, preferably overnight, to allow all the ice to melt naturally. Do not use a hair dryer or sharp objects to chip ice, as this may damage the evaporator.
⚠️ Attention: If you are in a hurry and use a hair dryer to speed up defrosting, keep it at least 30 cm away from the plastic and do not direct the hot jet at the rubber seal so that it does not deform.
☑️ Preparing for washing
After the ice has melted, thoroughly wipe the bottom of the chamber with a dry cloth, removing all accumulated water. It is in this water that food residues are often dissolved, which give the main smell. Now the equipment is ready to apply detergents.
Folk remedies for eliminating odors
There are many effective ways to wash the inside of the refrigerator without resorting to aggressive chemicals. The leader among folk methods is conventional vinegar, which perfectly dissolves fat and kills germs. Mix 9% table vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio and wipe all surfaces with the solution.
Another powerful absorbent and cleaning agent is baking soda. It not only removes odors, but also acts as a soft abrasive, helping to remove dried-on stains. To prepare the solution, dilute 2 tablespoons of soda in a liter of warm water.
Why can’t you mix vinegar and soda?
Mixing vinegar and soda leads to a violent chemical reaction with the release of carbon dioxide. In a closed space (for example, in a spray bottle) this can create excess pressure, and in an open container the mixture will simply lose its cleaning properties, turning into salt water. Use these products separately!
For delicate surfaces, such as the plastic of drawers, laundry soap is excellent. Grate the block and dissolve the shavings in hot water until smooth. This method is especially good for removing greasy plaque.
Specialized household chemicals
If traditional methods do not seem effective enough to you or you prefer ready-made solutions, the market offers a wide range of products. When choosing spray or gel, pay attention to the mark “for food surfaces” or “antibacterial effect.”
Modern products often contain silver ions or active oxygen, which provide long-term protection against bacteria. However, you should be careful with chlorine-containing products, such as “Belizna.”
Chlorine effectively disinfects, but its vapors can be absorbed into plastic and rubber seals, creating a new, no less unpleasant chemical odor, which is then difficult to get rid of. In addition, chlorine can change the color of white plastic to yellowish.
Pay special attention to the choice of glass cleaner if you have glass shelves. They must be free of ammonia, since its smell also tends to persist and be transferred to products.
Washing technology: step-by-step instructions
The washing process must be systematic. Start on the top shelves and work your way down to avoid dirty water dripping onto areas that have already been washed. Use a soft sponge or microfiber to avoid leaving scratches.
Pay special attention rubber seal to the door. It is in its folds that mold and dirt most often accumulate. Gently bend the rubber and wipe the inside with a cotton swab dipped in vinegar solution or hydrogen peroxide.
| Type of contamination | Best remedy | Time exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Greasey coating | Soap solution | 5-10 minutes |
| Berry/juice stains | Soda solution | 15 minutes |
| Mold in rubber | Hydrogen peroxide / Vinegar | 10 minutes |
| General disinfection | Specialized spray | According to the instructions |
After treating all surfaces with clean water, rinse the cloth again and wipe the camera clean. Don’t be lazy to change the water in the bucket if it becomes dirty, otherwise you will simply smear bacteria along the walls.
Cleaning removable elements and hard-to-reach places
Glass shelves and plastic containers are most conveniently washed in a bathtub or sink under running water. You can use warmer water for them than for the inner chamber of the refrigerator to avoid thermal shock.
Plastic boxes often absorb odors more strongly than other materials. If the usual solution does not help, soak them in a basin of water, adding a tablet activated carbon or a little citric acid. Leave for several hours.
⚠️ Attention: Do not place cold glass shelves directly under hot water - the glass may crack due to a sharp temperature change. Let them warm to room temperature.
Don't forget to check the drainage hole, which is usually located on the back wall inside the chamber. If it is clogged, the condensation does not leave, and stagnant water forms in the pan behind the back wall - the source of a terrible smell. You can clean it using a special brush or soft wire.
Drying and preventing odors
After completing wet cleaning, leave the refrigerator doors open until all surfaces are completely dry. A humid environment is ideal for bacterial growth, so this step is critical.
To prevent the smell from returning, use natural absorbents. Unlike chemical air fresheners, they do not mask the problem, but rather adsorb odor molecules. Change such “traps” once a month.
Effective absorbents:
- 🍋 Fresh lemon or orange zest
- ☕ A cup of ground coffee or beans
- 🍞 A piece of black bread on a saucer
- 🧂 An open pack of soda with holes in the lid
It is also useful to carry out preventive washing every six months, even if there is no visible contamination. This will extend the life of the equipment and preserve the health of your family.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can a steam cleaner be used to clean a refrigerator?
You can use a steam cleaner, but with great caution. The high temperature of the steam can deform the thin plastic of the internal shelves or damage the rubber seal. In addition, excess moisture can enter electrical circuits. It is better to use this method only for glass elements and only when the appliance is unplugged.
How to remove the smell of plastic from a new refrigerator?
The smell of new plastic is normal. To get rid of it, wipe the inner walls with a solution of citric acid (1 teaspoon per liter of water) or use an activated carbon tablet left inside for a day. Ventilation with the doors open for 24 hours is also effective.
Why did the smell return after washing after a couple of days?
Most likely, the source of the smell was not completely eliminated. Often the problem lies in the drainage hole, the condensate tray (located at the bottom of the compressor) or in a layer of dirt under the rubber seal. Also, the odor can be emitted by foods that absorbed it before cleaning.
Is it safe to wash a refrigerator with bleach?
Bleach effectively kills mold, but it is aggressive. After treatment with a chlorine-containing agent, it is necessary to rinse the surfaces very carefully and repeatedly with clean water. Chlorine residues may react with food and be hazardous to health. For food chambers, it is better to choose more gentle antiseptics.