The interior of the refrigerator is a high-risk area for the proliferation of bacteria, so the question of how to wash the plastic of the refrigerator worries every home cook. Regular cleaning is necessary not only to maintain aesthetics, but also to prevent unpleasant odors and food spoilage. The plastic from which the shelves and internal walls are made requires a delicate approach, since aggressive chemistry can damage its structure. Many owners of modern equipment face a problem when over time the surface loses its original appearance. Yellowness, stubborn fat and food marks become visible to the naked eye. It is important to understand that the wrong choice of detergent can lead to microcracks in which dirt will subsequently accumulate.
Many owners of modern equipment Indesit or LG They face a problem when, over time, the surface loses its original appearance. Yellowness, stubborn fat and food marks become visible to the naked eye. It is important to understand that the wrong choice of detergent can lead to microcracks in which dirt will subsequently accumulate.
In this article we will analyze proven cleaning methods that will help return the device to cleanliness without the risk of damaging materials. You will learn which homemade recipes work better than store-bought chemicals and how to avoid common mistakes.
Why plastic turns yellow and gets dirty
The main reason for the change in color of polymer materials is exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the oxidation of fire retardants, which are added to plastic to increase its fire safety. Over time, these substances react with oxygen, which leads to the appearance of a characteristic yellow tint. This process is natural, but its speed depends on the quality of the plastic and operating conditions.
The second factor influencing the appearance is fat plaque. When you open the door, microparticles of fat and moisture get inside along with the air, which settle on the walls. If you do not carry out regular wet cleaning, this layer hardens and becomes an ideal environment for the development of mold.
It is also worth mentioning the influence of coloring substances from products. Spilled berry juice, turmeric or beets can leave deep marks if not removed immediately. The porous structure of some types of plastic facilitates the rapid absorption of pigments.
⚠️ Attention: Using abrasive sponges at the initial stage of cleaning creates microscopic scratches. Dirt will clog into these grooves much faster, and it will be almost impossible to wash them later.
Understanding the nature of dirt helps to choose the right product. If fat is easily washed off with alkaline solutions, then more powerful oxidizing agents or mechanical action will be required to eliminate yellowness.
Preparation for washing and selection of tools
Before starting the active phase of cleaning, it is necessary to properly prepare the workplace and tools. First, you should completely empty the refrigerator compartment of food and remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, egg containers. It is better to wash them separately in a sink or bathtub.
For work you will need soft sponges, microfiber and a spray bottle. It is important to avoid using hard brushes with metal bristles, as they are guaranteed to ruin the glossy surface. The ideal choice would be microfiber cloths that effectively collect dust and grease without streaks.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Water temperature is critical. Too hot water can deform thin plastic, and cold water will not be able to effectively dissolve grease stains. The optimal temperature is about 35-40 degrees.
Don't forget to take care of your own safety. Even when using natural products, it is recommended to work with rubber gloves to protect the skin of your hands from drying out and possible irritation.
Folk remedies for safe cleaning
Home recipes are often more effective than expensive household chemicals, especially when it comes to food chambers. One of the most popular products is a solution of laundry soap. It breaks down fat perfectly and does not contain aggressive fragrances.
To prepare the solution, grate half a bar of soap and dissolve the shavings in a liter of warm water. Apply the resulting mixture to the walls and leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. This method is safe for all types of plastic, including matte surfaces.
- 🧼 Baking soda - a soft abrasive that removes old stains and neutralizes odors.
- 🍋 Citric acid - copes well with limescale deposits and gives a pleasant aroma.
- 🍶 Table vinegar —disinfects the surface and removes greasy shine.
- 🦷 Tooth powder —helps whiten yellowed areas without damaging the structure.
Another powerful remedy is hydrogen peroxide. It not only cleanses, but also has a whitening effect. Wiping the walls with a 3% peroxide solution helps restore the plastic to its original color and destroy bacteria.
The secret of perfect shine
To give glossy plastic a mirror shine, use a mixture of water and ammonia in a ratio of 10:1. After wiping with this solution, the surface will shine, and the smell of ammonia will quickly disappear.
Professional chemistry: what to choose in the store
If traditional methods do not seem effective enough to you or you prefer ready-made solutions, the market offers a wide range of specialized products. When choosing, it is important to pay attention to the labeling "for food surfaces" or "for refrigerators."
Alcohol-based sprays are good for quick cleaning and disinfection, but they can dry out the plastic with frequent use. Gel-like products cope better with vertical surfaces, since they do not drain immediately and have time to dissolve contaminants.
| Type of product | Effectiveness against grease | Safety for plastic | Odor elimination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol sprays | Average | High | Low |
| Gels with surfactants | High | Average | Average |
| Foam cleaners | High | High | High |
| Wet napkins | Low | Very high | Medium |
When using chemicals, always follow the instructions on the package. Apply the product not directly to the plastic, but to a sponge or cloth to control the amount of active substance.
How to remove complex stains and stickers
Old stains from berries, spices or glue from labels require a special approach. Regular washing may not help here, so you have to use more effective, but careful methods.
Vegetable oil or a special solvent for glue (for example, Label Off) are excellent for removing stickers and traces of glue. Apply the oil to a cotton pad and apply to the sticker for a few minutes. The glue will soften and come off easily, and the remaining oil will be washed off with dishwashing detergent.
⚠️ Attention: Never use acetone, solvent 646 or other aggressive organic solvents to clean plastic. They can melt the top layer of polymer, making the surface sticky and cloudy.
If marks from a felt-tip pen or ballpoint pen appear on the plastic, try using a melamine sponge. It works like an eraser, erasing dirt from the surface. However, use it with caution and only on small areas, as it is a micro-abrasive.
For deep stains in the pores of plastic, you can prepare a paste of soda and water. Apply the mixture to the stain, scrub lightly with a soft brush and leave for 20 minutes. Then rinse with warm water.
Removing yellowness and restoring color
The question of how to remove yellowness from the plastic of a refrigerator often arises before owners of equipment that is already several years old. If superficial cleaning does not help, a deeper treatment will be required.
One of the most effective ways is to use clothes washing gel or dishwashing detergent with a bleaching effect. Apply the gel in a thick layer to the yellowed areas and leave for several hours (you can overnight), covering with cling film so that the product does not dry out.
- 🌞 Sunny light - plastic treated with hydrogen peroxide can be exposed to the sun for several hours, UV rays will enhance the bleaching reaction.
- 💊 Tablets for dishwashers —dissolved in water, they create a powerful alkaline solution that corrodes yellow plaque.
- 🧴 Wipes for office equipment —special alcohol wipes for monitors can gently remove the oxidized layer.
It is important to understand that if the yellowness is caused by a profound change in the chemical structure of the plastic (degradation), then it may not be possible to completely return the white color. In such cases, only painting or replacing the part helps.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with a detergent windows?
It is not recommended to use conventional window cleaners, as they often contain high concentrations of ammonia and fragrances, which can be absorbed into the plastic and transmit the odor to the products. It is better to use specialized products or a vinegar solution.
How often should you wash the inside of the refrigerator?
The optimal frequency of general cleaning is once every 2-3 months. However, spills and crumbs should be cleaned up immediately to prevent bacterial growth and odors.
Is it safe to use a steam cleaner on plastic?
Use a steam cleaner with extreme caution. The high temperature of the steam can deform thin plastic elements. If you decide to use steam, keep the nozzle at a distance of at least 15-20 cm from the surface.
How to remove the smell of fish or meat from the refrigerator?
Activated carbon, soda in an open container, or special odor absorbers deal best with odors. Before doing this, be sure to wash the chamber with a solution of vinegar or citric acid.