Step-by-step instructions: how to properly wash a new refrigerator before first use

Have you just purchased a new refrigerator and are ready to fill it with food? Take your time! The first thing to do after delivery is Wash all internal and external surfaces thoroughly. Even if the equipment looks perfectly clean, traces of factory grease, dust from production, or microparticles of packaging materials may remain on its walls. Moreover, some models are covered with a special protective film, which must be removed.

Why is this so important? Firstly, factory contamination they can give products an unpleasant chemical taste. Secondly, the remnants of packaging or preservative compositions over time become a breeding ground for bacteria. Thirdly, proper primary treatment extends the life of equipment and prevents the appearance of persistent odors. In this article we will look at which products are safe to use for the first cleaning of the refrigerator, and which can damage the coating or leave toxic residues.

Why can’t you just wipe the refrigerator with a damp cloth?

Many users limit themselves to superficial cleaning, believing that Factory cleanliness is quite high. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Even if the refrigerator was packed in a sealed film, the following could accumulate inside it:

• 🧴 Preservative oils - applied to metal parts to protect against corrosion during transportation. When in contact with food, they oxidize and give food a metallic taste.
• 📦 Microparticles of foam - remain after unpacking and can stick to the walls with static electricity.
• 🏭 Industrial dust - settle on surfaces during assembly and storage in a warehouse.
• 🧼 Traces of detergents - sometimes manufacturers treat internal surfaces with disinfectant solutions before packaging.

In addition, in new refrigerators with the system No Frost or Low Frost there may be particles of freon or oil from the compressor that get inside when you first turn it on. Without pre-washing, these substances will mix with condensation and settle on the shelves.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was stored in an unheated warehouse or transported in winter, condensation could form inside. In this case, before washing, let the equipment stand for 2-3 hours at room temperature so that the moisture evaporates.

What products can be used for the first wash?

The choice of detergent depends on the material of the internal surfaces of your refrigerator. Most modern models (Samsung RB Series, LG InstaView, Bosch VitaFresh) are coated with food-grade plastic or stainless steel, but some premium versions (for example, Liebherr BioFresh) may include glass shelves or antibacterial silver plating.

Can be used for disinfection food alcohol (diluted to 40-50%) or hydrogen peroxide (3% solution). These products effectively kill bacteria and do not leave toxic residues. But it is better to avoid household chemicals with a strong odor (for example, Domestos or "Whiteness"- their particles can be absorbed into the plastic for a long time). erode.

Step-by-step instructions: how to wash the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time

The process of washing a new refrigerator consists of several stages. It is important to follow the sequence so as not to miss hidden dirt (for example, under the rubber seals or in the drainage hole). Here is a detailed algorithm:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains (if it has already been connected to check) it is enough to remove the plug from the socket - no additional manipulations with the power button are required.
2. Remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, containers, racks. They are washed separately in the sink or bathtub.
3. Remove protective stickers and filmPay attention to the back wall - there are often labels with serial numbers, which also need to be carefully. clean.
4. Wipe the internal surfaces with a damp cloth soaked in the selected detergent. Move from top to bottom so that dirt does not drip onto already clean areas.
5. Treat the sealing rubber this the dirtiest place. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or vinegar to remove dirt from the grooves.
6. Rinse the drainage hole (located on the back wall) pour 50-100 ml of warm water with soda into it, then clean it with a flexible brush or. with a toothpick.
7. Dry all surfaces with a soft towel or let them dry naturally (20-30 minutes). No moisture should remain in the corners!
8. Wipe the external surfaces, including the handle and panel. controls. For stainless steel, use special lint-free wipes.

All factory stickers and film have been removed|

The removable shelves have been washed and dried|

The seals and drainage have been treated. hole|

The external surfaces have been wiped, including the back wall|

The refrigerator has been dried for at least 30 minutes-->

Pay special attention in the area around the compressor (dust and oily deposits often accumulate there). this area with a dry cloth - moisture is not allowed here!

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a Air Flow or Multi Air Flow system (for example, model Samsung Twin Cooling Plus), do not direct the stream of water at ventilation holes. Moisture getting into the air ducts can cause a short circuit when first turned on.

What should not be done when washing for the first time?

Some actions can not only reduce the cleaning efficiency, but also damage the refrigerator:

• 🔥 Use hot water - it deforms plastic parts and can damage seals. Optimal water temperature: 30–40°C.
• 🧽 Use hard sponges or metal brushes —they scratch the coating, and bacteria then accumulate in microcracks.
• 💦 Pour water into the drainage hole under pressure —this can clog the drain tube, and condensation will accumulate at the bottom of the chamber.
• 🧴 Apply detergent directly to the surface —always dilute it in water first to avoid streaks.
• ⚡ Turn on the refrigerator immediately after washing —if moisture remains on the walls, when cooled it will turn into ice and can damage the system No Frost.

Also, do not use scented products (for example, with the smell of citrus or pine). They can react with the plastic and leave a lingering chemical odor that will then transfer to the food. If you want to freshen the air inside, place a slice of lemon or a bag of activated carbon on the shelf for 1-2 hours before turning it on for the first time.

How to properly wash removable elements?

Shelves, drawers and containers require special attention. They cannot be washed in the same way as the main surfaces of the refrigerator. Here are the key rules:

• 🍽️ Glass shelves Wash in warm water and a mild detergent. Do not use cold water - temperature changes may cause the glass to crack. After washing, wipe dry with microfiber so that there are no streaks left.
• 🥬 Plastic vegetable boxes can be washed in the dishwasher (if permitted by the instructions). The water temperature should not exceed 50°C. For manual washing, use a soda solution.
• 🧊 Wipe freezer grates (if they are metal) with a dry cloth - moisture causes corrosion. For plastic parts, you can use a vinegar solution. are often covered with ice even in new refrigerators (due to test inclusions at the factory). Defrost them at room temperature without trying to break off the ice with a knife.
• 🥛 Bottle holders (if they are metal) wipe with a dry cloth - moisture causes corrosion. For plastic ones, you can use a vinegar solution.

If there are traces of factory grease on plastic parts, soak them for 10–15 minutes in warm water with the addition of dishwashing detergent. Then rinse under running water and dry. To disinfect, you can rinse the elements with boiling water (if the material allows it) or wipe with alcohol.

How to remove yellowness from plastic shelves?

Yellowness on plastic appears due to the reaction of the material with oxygen or detergents. To eliminate it:

1. Prepare a paste of soda and hydrogen peroxide (1:1).

2. Apply to yellowed areas and leave for 20-30 minutes.

3. Rub with a soft sponge and rinse with warm water.

4. To consolidate the effect, wipe the shelves with a vinegar solution (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water).

Do not use bleaches - they will make the plastic brittle!

How long should you dry the refrigerator before turning it on?

This is one of the most important issues that is often overlooked. If you turn on a refrigerator with wet walls, this will lead to:

• Formation of ice on the evaporator (in models with No Frost this will cause compressor overload).
• The appearance of an unpleasant musty odor due to the proliferation of bacteria in damp corners.
• Short circuit if moisture gets on the electrical contacts (relevant for refrigerators with electronic control).

Minimum drying time - 30 minutes at room temperature (20–25°C) and good ventilation. If the room is humid or cool (for example, in the kitchen after cooking), increase the time to 1–1.5 hours. To speed up the process:

• Open the doors wide open.
• Point a fan at the refrigerator (but not hot air!).
• Wipe hard-to-reach places (corners, seal grooves) with paper towels.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with a function Quick Freeze or Super Cool (for example, Beko ProSmart Inverter), moisture on the walls can freeze in a matter of minutes when first turned on. This will lead to icing of the fan and malfunction of the cooling system.

What to do after turning it on for the first time?

When the refrigerator is dry and you turn it on, do not rush to load the food. Let the equipment run idle for 2–4 hours so that:

• The temperature in the chambers stabilizes.
• Residual odors (if any) evaporate.
• The compressor has passed primary diagnostics (in models with self-testing, for example. LG Smart Diagnosis).

After 2 hours, check:

• Are all zones cooling evenly (use a thermometer for the refrigerator).
• Are there any extraneous noises (knocking, vibration may indicate incorrect installation).
• Is condensation appearing on the back wall (in models with drip this is normal with the system, but not in No Frost - No).

If everything is in order, you can start loading the products. Start with the most persistent (canned food, bottled drinks), and add perishable ones (meat, dairy products) after 6-8 hours, when the temperature has completely stabilized.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the first one. washing a refrigerator

Is it possible to wash a new refrigerator with a steam generator?

No, this is not recommended. Hot steam can deform plastic parts, damage seals and cause corrosion of metal elements. In addition, high temperature destroys the antibacterial coating (if any) It is better to use alcohol solutions or peroxide for disinfection. hydrogen.

Is it necessary to wash the refrigerator if it was in packaging?

Yes, it is necessary. Even in sealed packaging, microparticles of dust, oil and preservatives may accumulate during transportation. Washing takes 20-30 minutes, but protects your health and extends its service life. equipment.

How to get rid of the chemical smell in a new refrigerator?

If there is a persistent smell after washing, try the following methods:

1. Wipe all surfaces with a solution of vinegar (1:1 with water) and leave the doors open for 3-4 hours.
2. Place an open pack of soda or activated carbon inside for 12-24 hours.
3. Use an odor absorber (for example, "Cinderella" or "Fresh Box").
4. If the smell does not go away, repeat wash with lemon juice (2 tablespoons per 1 liter of water).

Do not use air fresheners - they mask the smell, but do not remove its cause.

Can bleach be used for disinfection?

No, chlorine-containing products ("Whiteness", "Domestos") have an aggressive effect on plastic and rubber seals. They can cause:

• Yellowing and cracking of plastic.
• Destruction of the antibacterial. coatings.
• A persistent chemical odor that will be absorbed into the food.

For disinfection, use food alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or specialized products for refrigerators.

Do you need to wash the outside of the refrigerator?

Yes, external surfaces also require cleaning. Dust, fingerprints and transport stains settle on them. Pay special attention to:

• The handle and control panel (wipe with an alcohol solution).
• The back wall (remove dust with a dry cloth, without using water!).
• Legs and rollers (it accumulates there). dirt from the floor).

For stainless steel, use special polishes to avoid streaks.