Sudden detection a sticky spot on a shelf or an unpleasant aroma emanating from the camera - a situation familiar to every home cook. We often put off spring cleaning until later, hoping that the cold will preserve the dirt, but this is a mistake. Timely and correct hygiene not only extends the life of equipment, but also protects the health of household members from bacteria.
The cleaning process does not require expensive chemicals or professional skills. It is enough to know the sequence of actions and have simple abrasives or mild detergents on hand. In this article we will look at how to effectively remove contaminants without damaging the internal coating and plastic parts.
Before taking active steps, it is important to understand that each type of contaminant requires an individual approach. Grease stains from kitchen pans and dried berry juice can be removed using different methods. Proper preparation and selection tools will allow you to cope with the task in one approach, without wasting time on repeated procedures.
Preparation for cleaning: disconnecting and defrosting
The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the device from electrical networks. You cannot simply pull out the cord while the compressor is running at full capacity - this may damage the system. Allow the equipment to “rest” for 10-15 minutes after turning off before taking active steps to remove food.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to speed up defrosting by picking at the ice with a knife or metal objects. One awkward movement can break evaporator, and repairs will cost more than buying a new refrigerator.
While the defrosting process is underway, start sorting the contents. Remove all products, check their expiration dates and the integrity of the packaging. It is better to temporarily transfer frozen semi-finished products to a thermal bag or wrap them in a blanket so that they do not spoil during defrosting defrosting.
If your model is not equipped with a No Frost system, the water should be allowed to drain naturally. Place wide containers and place absorbent rags at the base. For models with No Frost this stage will go faster, but it is still necessary to check for condensation in the drainage holes.
Choice of safe detergents
The household chemicals market offers many sprays, but for internal chambers it is better to use time-tested folk methods or specialized gels for food surfaces. The main rule is that the product should not have a sharp, corrosive odor, which will subsequently be absorbed into the food.
The ideal option is a regular baking soda solution. It perfectly breaks down fat, disinfects surfaces and is completely safe if it accidentally comes into contact with food. Solutions with vinegarhave also proven themselves well, helping to eliminate unpleasant odors and disinfect plastic.
If you prefer store-bought chemicals, choose products marked “eco” or designed specifically for contact with food. Avoid using chlorine bleaches as the fumes can be toxic in confined spaces and the residue is difficult to completely remove from porous plastic. Before applying any new product to large areas, test it on an inconspicuous area of plastic at the bottom of the chamber to ensure reactions. porous plastic.
The table below compares the effectiveness of various products for different types of pollution:
| Type of product | Efficacy against grease | Odor elimination | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soda solution | Medium | High | Absolute |
| Vinegar water | Low | Maximum | High |
| Special. spray | High | Medium | Depends on the composition |
| Soap solution | Medium | Low | High |
Algorithm for washing the internal chambers
Washing should begin from top to bottom. This is the golden rule of cleaning, which allows dirty water to drain to the already washed lower levels, from where it is easily removed. First, wipe the ceiling of the chamber and the upper shelves using a soft sponge soaked in the selected solution.
Pay special attention to the corners and joints of the panels. This is where mold and bacteria most often accumulate. If the stains are old, apply a cleaning agent and leave for 5-10 minutes to soften, but do not allow the liquid to completely dry on plastic.
☑️ Procedure for washing the camera
After treating all surfaces, they must be thoroughly wiped with a clean damp cloth to remove any remaining detergent. Then be sure to dry everything with microfiber or paper towels. A humid environment promotes the growth of microorganisms and the appearance of mold.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use hot water to wash internal plastic panels. A sharp change in temperature can lead to deformation or the appearance of microcracks, in which dirt will later settle.
Cleaning removable elements: shelves and drawers
Glass shelves and plastic containers are most conveniently washed in a bathtub or large basin. Glass tolerates warm water well, but avoid sharp temperature contrasts if the shelf has just been taken out of the freezer - it may burst. When washing, use the soft side of the sponge to avoid leaving scratches. Plastic vegetable boxes often have a rough texture that traps dirt. Here you can use a brush with soft bristles. Thoroughly wash the guides and rollers, if provided by the design. Congealed fat from kitchen utensils stored in the freezer will help remove scratches.
Plastic vegetable drawers often have a rough texture that traps dirt. Here you can use a brush with soft bristles. Thoroughly wash the guides and rollers, if provided by the design. Congealed grease from kitchen utensils stored in the freezer will help remove hot soap solution.
How to remove white deposits on plastic?
White deposits are often traces of hard water or oxidation. Wipe the surface with a cloth soaked in vegetable oil, and then degrease with soapy water.
After washing, allow all elements to dry completely at room temperature. Do not put wet shelves or drawers back into the chamber as this will immediately increase the humidity and cause the compressor to work harder. Make sure that there is no moisture left in hard-to-reach places of the drawers Moisture.
Care of seals and external surfaces
The rubber door seal is a weak point where black mold most often forms. Wipe it gently, pulling the fold, but not stretching it excessively. A weak solution of vinegar or special wipes for rubber products are excellent for disinfecting rubber. care for rubber products.
External doors, especially those made of stainless steel or with a glossy finish, require delicate handling. Use glass cleaners or stainless steel polishes, applying them strictly in the direction of the pile (if any) or using vertical movements. This will help avoid smears and maintain an aesthetic appearance.
Do not forget about the back wall and the condenser grille (if it is open). Dust on the radiator significantly reduces cooling efficiency and increases energy consumption. Carefully vacuum the grille or brush off the dust with a dry brush, being careful caution with the tubes.
Elimination of unpleasant odors
Even after thorough washing, sometimes the specific smell of an “old refrigerator” persists. In this case, natural absorbents will help. Place open containers of activated carbon, ground coffee or soda on the shelves. These substances perfectly absorb foreign odors.
You can also use a slice of black bread or cotton pads soaked in lemon juice or vanilla extract. Leave them inside a closed refrigerator for a day. It is better not to use chemical air fresheners, as they can give products an unnatural taste. If the smell is caused by spilled milk or meat juice that may have leaked inside the housing, professional cleaning of the drainage system may be required. In simple cases, flushing the drainage hole with warm water using medical taste.
If the smell is caused by spilled milk or meat juices that may have leaked into the cabinet, the drainage system may need to be professionally cleaned. In simple cases, flushing the drainage hole with warm water using a medical pears or a syringe without a needle helps.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with dishwashing liquid?
Yes, you can, but only if it is completely washed off with water. Gel-like products can leave a slippery film that will interfere with the installation of shelves. Wipe the surfaces thoroughly with clean water after use Fairy or analogues.
How often should you carry out general cleaning?
It is recommended to do a complete defrosting and washing every 3-6 months, depending on the type of refrigerator. Models with the No Frost system require cleaning less often than devices with manual defrosting. defrosting.
How to wash yellow deposits on plastic?
Yellowishness often appears from time or contact with certain products. Try applying a paste of baking soda and water, leave for 15 minutes and rinse. Special wipes for cleaning plastic are also effective. plastic.
What to do if after washing the refrigerator does not freeze well?
Perhaps you turned it on too early, before it was completely dry, or you knocked down the thermostat settings. Let the equipment run idle for 2-3 hours. If the problem persists, check to see if the holes air circulation holes are not clogged.
Is it safe to use a steam cleaner?
Using a steam cleaner inside should be done with great care. The high temperature of the steam can deform the thin plastic of the shelves or damage the electronic sensors. It is better to limit yourself to warm water and a sponge.