Modern refrigerators LG equipped with complex storage systems, including tempered glass, chrome grilles and special plastic containers. Over time, greasy stains, traces of spilled products and unpleasant odors appear on the surfaces, requiring immediate attention.
Improper cleaning can lead to microcracks in the glass or damage to the antibacterial coating. In this article, we will look in detail at how to safely and effectively clean the internal elements of the refrigerator compartment, preserving their original appearance.
Preparing for cleaning and choosing safe products
Before starting the process, you need to empty the refrigerator compartment of food. Temperature conditions The inside of the chamber must be raised, so it is better to temporarily move all perishable products to a cool place or a thermal bag. This will avoid food spoilage while the door is open.
To wash shelves LG it is strictly prohibited to use aggressive chemicals containing chlorine, acetone or abrasive particles. Such substances can react with the plastic, causing it to become cloudy or crack, and also damage the seals.
The best solution is to use warm water with the addition of a mild dishwashing detergent or baking soda solution. If the dirt is strong, you can use specialized sprays for household appliances, but they must be washed off thoroughly.
⚠️ Attention: Never use hot water to wash glass shelves if they have just been removed from the refrigerator. A sharp temperature change is guaranteed to lead to destruction of the glass structure.
Dismantling removable elements of the refrigerator
Most refrigerator models LG are designed so that the owner can easily remove the shelves for washing. However, mechanical impact without prior preparation can break the plastic clips.
First, clear the shelf of food and dishes. Then carefully lift the front part and pull it towards you. Some models DoorCooling+ or Multi Air Flow may have additional guides that require light pressure on the stoppers.
Plastic containers for vegetables are usually removed by moving up and down. If the element does not give in, do not use force - check the instructions for your model, perhaps there is a hidden locking mechanism.
What to do if the shelf is stuck?
If the shelf cannot be removed, check whether it rests on the products on the side doors or on large bottles. Sometimes ice in the grooves gets in the way - let the refrigerator stand for 10 minutes with the door open.
Glass surfaces require special care when carrying. Their edges, even if they seem smooth, can be sharp, so use kitchen towels or gloves to grip.
The process of washing glass and plastic surfaces
Removed shelves are best washed in a bathtub or large basin. Cover the bottom of the bath with a soft towel so that accidentally dropped glass does not break on the hard surface of enamel or acrylic.
Apply the prepared soap solution to the surface and leave for 5-10 minutes. This will help soften dried-on dirt. To remove grease, use a sponge with a soft abrasive side, but rub without strong pressure.
- 🧼 Use warm water (about 30-40 degrees) to better dissolve grease.
- 🚿 Rinse the parts thoroughly in the shower so that no soapy streaks remain.
- 🌬️ Wipe dry with microfiber or leave to dry at room temperature.
After washing, be sure to wipe all elements dry. Remaining moisture when put back into the refrigerator can quickly freeze or cause mold to form in the corners.
Cleaning the interior walls and hard-to-reach places
While the shelves dry, take care of the interior of the refrigerator compartment. It is important here not to damage the system air circulation and temperature sensors, which are often located on the back wall.
Wipe the walls with a damp cloth, moving from top to bottom. Pay special attention to condensate drainage grooves, if your model has them. They can be cleaned with a soft brush or cotton swab.
| Cleaning area | Recommended product | Tool | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass shelves | Soap solution | Soft sponge | Once a month |
| Plastic boxes | Soda + water | Microfiber cloth | Once every 2 weeks |
| Door seals | Warm water | Cotton swab | Once a week |
| Rear wall | Special spray | Soft fabric | Once every 3 months |
The rubber seals on the door also require maintenance. Dirt and crumbs often accumulate in the folds, which disrupt the seal. Wipe them with a damp cloth without stretching the rubber.
⚠️ Attention: In models with the system No Frost it is prohibited to use sharp objects to remove ice or dirt from the evaporator if it accidentally becomes accessible. This can break the cooling circuit.
Elimination of unpleasant odors and disinfection
Even after thorough washing, the smell of sour milk or fish may persist in the refrigerator. To combat this, use natural absorbents that are safe for storing food.
An effective method is to wipe the internal surfaces with a solution of vinegar (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or soda. After such treatment, the refrigerator needs to be well ventilated.
- 🍞 A piece of black bread left on a plate will absorb odors overnight.
- ☕ Freshly ground coffee in an open container works as a powerful deodorant.
- 🍋 A slice of lemon or orange will refresh the air and leave a pleasant citrus aroma.
If the smell is very persistent, it may have penetrated into plastic parts that are difficult to remove. In this case, prolonged ventilation with the door open for several hours will help.
Hydrogen peroxide can be used for disinfection. Spray it onto the walls and shelves, leave for a couple of minutes, then wipe with a clean damp cloth. This will kill bacteria without using bleach.
Drying and properly assembling the refrigerator
Before putting the shelves back, make sure they are completely dry. Wet surfaces in the confined space of the refrigerator create ideal conditions for the growth of microorganisms.
Install glass shelves smoothly, making sure that they lie flat on the guides. A characteristic click or a tight fit will indicate that the element is in place.
Insert plastic boxes all the way, but without force. If the drawer is difficult to move, check to see if it was warped during installation. In some models LG drawers have wheels or slides that require precise positioning.
☑️ Final check before turning on
After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and let it reach temperature for 2-4 hours before loading the food. This is especially important in the summer.
Can the shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
Refrigerator manufacturers LG do not recommend washing glass shelves and plastic containers in the dishwasher. High water temperatures and aggressive detergents can lead to clouding of the plastic, deformation of thin elements or the appearance of microcracks in the glass due to thermal shock.
How to wash yellow stains on plastic shelves?
Yellowishness on plastic often occurs from contact with certain products or sunlight. Try making a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the stain and leave for an hour. Wiping with an alcohol solution also helps (be careful, not all types of plastic tolerate alcohol, test in an inconspicuous area).
How often should you wash the refrigerator?
It is recommended to completely defrost and wash the refrigerator and remove the shelves every 3-4 months. However, wiping up spills and removing crumbs should be done weekly during general cleaning of the kitchen.