How to wash the drawers in the refrigerator: from daily care to general cleaning

Drawers for vegetables, fruits and meat products are the most contaminated areas of the refrigerator. Here food debris accumulates, bacteria multiply, and condensation creates ideal conditions for mold. Regular cleaning of drawers not only removes unpleasant odorsbut also extends the life of the equipment: dirt on the seals and guides can disrupt the seal of the chamber. This article contains proven washing methods for plastic, glass and metal containers, as well as unique tips for removing stubborn dirt without damaging the coating.

Many housewives make typical mistakes: using abrasive sponges, that scratch plastic, or aggressive chemicals that corrode seals. We will look at which detergents are suitable for different materials, how to properly dry boxes so that they do not become deformed, and what to do if black mold appears on the bottom. Let us separately dwell on the nuances for refrigerators with the system No Frost and models with antibacterial coating (for example, Samsung BioFresh or LG DoorCooling+).

Why drawers in the refrigerator require special care

Unlike shelves, drawers are in direct contact with products: here lie juicy fruits, raw meat, fish or open bags of vegetables. Even with sealed packaging drops of juice, soil particles and microorganisms penetrate into the microcracks of the plastic. Over time, this leads to:

• 🦠 Development of bacteria (Salmonella, E. coli) and fungi, which can cause food poisoning.
• 🧊 Ice formation at the bottom of drawers in models without No Frost - due to frozen condensation.
• 👃 The appearance of a persistent “refrigeration” smell, which is absorbed by fresh products.
• 🔧 Breakdowns: dirt on the guides makes it difficult to pull out the drawers, and accumulated moisture corrodes the metal parts.

Manufacturers (for example, Bosch or Liebherr) recommend washing the drawers at least once every 2 weeks, and when storing perishable foods (meat, fish) - weekly. However in 80% of cases, users clean them only during general cleaning of the refrigerator, which increases the risk of mold growth by 3 times..

What you will need for cleaning: list of products and tools

Before you begin before washing, prepare everything you need. Do not use the first detergents you come across —many of them leave toxic residues or damage the surface. Here is a safe set:

For models with antibacterial coating (for example, Samsung RB30A3200SA or LG GB-B459SLQZ) do not use vinegar and alcohol —they destroy the protective layer. In this case, it is better to take specialized products marked "For refrigerators with ions silver".

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a Air Multi-Flow system (for example, Samsung RL60A77617F), before cleaning, turn off the cooling function for 30 minutes to avoid moisture getting into the ventilation ducts.

Step-by-step instructions: how to wash drawers without risking the refrigerator

Follow this algorithm to ensure cleaning is quick and safe. The whole process will take 40-60 minutes, including drying.

Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet (for models without No Frost)

Take out all the products and put them in a cooler bag

Remove the drawers from the guides (carefully, without pulling!)

Prepare warm water (temperature 30–40°C)

Wear rubber gloves-->

1. Dismantling of drawers. In most models (Indesit C 167 NF, Atlant MHM 1708), containers are removed by lightly pressing the latches on the sides. If the box cannot be removed, check whether ice is blocking it (this is important for freezers). - in 90% of cases the problem is the wrong angle of inclination.
2. Pre-soaking. Fill a sink or basin with warm water, add 2-3 tablespoons of soda or 50 ml of vinegar. 15–20 minutes - this will soften fat and adhered particles. For persistent stains (for example, traces of beets), use a solution of citric acid (1 packet per 1 liter of water).
3. Washing. Clean all surfaces with a soft sponge, paying attention:
   • 🔍 Corners and joints (most dirt accumulates here).
   • 📏 Guide rails (wipe them with a damp cloth and soapy water).
   • 🧼 Seals (use a cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide).

Disinfection. After washing, rinse the drawers with clean water and treat with an antibacterial agent. For plastic, a solution of vinegar (1:1), for glass - alcohol (70%) In models with ionic silver (Panasonic NR-BN30A1, just wipe the surfaces with dry microfiber.

Drying. Never install the drawers wet! This leads to the formation of condensation and mold. Dry them on a towel or use a hair dryer in cold air mode (keep at a distance of 20 cm).

If the smell remains after cleaning, place a bag of activated carbon or soda (2 tablespoons, wrapped in gauze) in the drawer for 12 hours. For models with carbon filter (Samsung RS55N5301SA, just turn the function on «Deodorizing» on. 1 hour.

How to remove mold and stubborn dirt

Black dots of mold or yellow stains from turmeric/beets are a common problem, especially in vegetable drawers. Ordinary washing will not help here: special methods are needed.

• 🍋 Citric acid + soda. Mix 2 tbsp. each component with water until it becomes a paste. Apply to the contaminated area, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse. Suitable for plastic and glass.
• 🧴 Hydrogen peroxide (3%). Pour undiluted peroxide onto the mold, after 10 minutes wipe with the hard side of the sponge. The method is effective for seals and joints.
• 🧂 Salt + vinegar. For metal boxes (found in retro models Smeg): sprinkle salt contamination, sprinkle with vinegar, rinse after 15 minutes. Do not use for aluminum!

If mold has penetrated into microcracks in the plastic, it is better to replace the box. In models Liebherr or Miele original containers can be ordered by article number (indicated on the reverse side). Cost - from 800 to 3000 rubles depending on the material.

⚠️ Attention: When cleaning drawers with antibacterial coating (for example, BioFresh from Liebherr) do not use products with bleach or chlorine. They destroy the protective layer and the coating will lose its properties.

What to do if the box is deformed after washing?

If the plastic box has lost its shape (for example, after hot water), try returning it to initial state:

1. Place the box in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes.

2. Place on a flat surface and press down with a weight (for example, a book) for 1–2 hours.

3. If the deformation is severe, heat it with a hairdryer (“cold air” mode) and carefully straighten your arms.

For glass boxes (Samsung RS6HA8891S9), deformation is not typical, but if they are cracked, they must be replaced.

Cleaning features for different types of refrigerators

The design of the boxes and recommendations for care depend on the type of cooling system and material. Let's consider the key nuances.

1. Refrigerators with No Frost

In models No Frost (Atlant XM 4026-000, Indesit DF 4180 W) drawers are washed without unpluggingas ice does not accumulate. However:

• 🌬️ After cleaning, dry the containers and turn on the function «Super Cool» for 30 minutes to remove moisture.
• 🚫 Do not direct the water stream at the ventilation holes (usually located on the back wall).

2. Models with Low Frost or drip system

Here the boxes are often covered with ice. Before cleaning, defrost the refrigerator (the time depends on the thickness of the ice - usually 2-4 hours). To speed up the process, place a bowl of hot water (not boiling water!) in the chamber. In models Birusa 101 or Pozyton KSH-140 the freezer drawers are washed separately, since they are attached to the bottom.

3. Refrigerators with a freshness zone (BioFresh, NutriFresh)

Containers for the freshness zone (Liebherr CBNes 4855, Bosch KAN92VI30R) maintain high humidity, so they are washed every 5-7 days. Use only soft products (for example, Ecover or BabyLine). After When cleaning, treat the surfaces with a solution of water and lemon juice (1:1) - this neutralizes odors.

4. Built-in refrigerators

In models Electrolux EEN 91810 OX or Gorenje RK 6292 AW Drawers often have non-standard sizes. Before cleaning, take a photo of their location —if assembled incorrectly, air circulation may be disrupted. For washing, use a spray Top House (does not require rinsing).

What not to do when washing drawers

Even small mistakes can lead to breakdown refrigerator or damage to the drawers. Here are top 5 prohibited actions:

• 🔥 Use hot water (>50°C). The plastic is deformed and the glass may crack. The optimal temperature is 30–40°C.
• 🧴 Apply the detergent directly to the drawer. Always dilute the product in water to avoid streaks and damage to the coating.
• ❄️ Put the drawers back wet. This is the main cause of mold. Dry them for at least 30 minutes.
• 🔌 Wash the drawers without unplugging the refrigerator (for models without No Frost). Moisture on electrical contacts can cause a short circuit.
• 🧽 Use abrasive sponges or powders. They scratch the surface, and dirt quickly accumulates in microcracks.

You need to be especially careful with boxes made of tempered glass (for example, Samsung RB-30 J3200EF). With strong mechanical stress, they can split. For such models, use only microfiber rags and alcohol-free sprays.

How to prolong cleanliness: preventive tips

To keep the drawers clean longer, follow these recommendations:

• 🥬 Use cling film or silicone mats. Lay them on the bottom of the drawer before placing food - this will protect against juice and crumbs.
• 📅 Carry out “express cleaning” once a week. Just wipe the drawers with a damp cloth and soda (1 tsp per 1 liter of water).
• 🧊 Store food in containers. This is especially true for meat, fish and juicy fruits. Containers are suitable Tupperware or Lock&Lock.
• 🌿 Place a natural odor absorber in the drawer. This could be a piece of activated charcoal, a lemon peel or a bag of soda.

For refrigerators with antibacterial coating (Panasonic NR-B571) it is enough to turn on the function «Eco Clean» once a month - it automatically disinfects the chamber with ozone. In conventional models, every 3 months, wipe the drawers with a solution of vinegar (1:1 with water) to prevent mold.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cleaning drawers in the refrigerator

Is it possible to wash the drawers in dishwasher?

Depends on the material:

• 🔹 Plastic: Only if it has an icon «Dishwasher Safe». The temperature should not exceed 50°C (mode "Eco" or "Delicate").
• 🔹 Glass: Can be washed in dishwasher, but without aggressive detergents (for example, tablets). data-i="252">Do not use bleach - it will make the plastic brittle. «Finish Powerball»).
• 🔹 Metal: Absolutely not - it will darken and become covered with rust.

Important: After washing in the dishwasher, rinse the drawers under running water - detergent residue may be absorbed into the plastic.

How to whiten yellowed plastic boxes?

Yellowing of plastic is the result of oxidation or the use of unsuitable detergents to help restore its original appearance:

1. A paste of soda and hydrogen peroxide. (1:1). Apply for 20 minutes, then rinse.
2. Bleach "Vanish" (diluted 1:10 with water). Soak the drawers for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
3. Toothpaste with a whitening effect. Rub the yellow areas with a soft brush.

Warning: Do not use bleach - it will make the plastic brittle.

How to wash drawers in the refrigerator with silver ions?

For models with antibacterial coating (Samsung RB37J5230SS, LG GB-B459PVQZ) the following are suitable:

• 🧼 Mild soap (for example, «BabyLine»).
• 🍈 Citric acid solution (1 tsp per 1 liter of water).
• 💧 Special napkins for equipment with silver («Topperr 3104»).

Prohibited: vinegar, alcohol, products with surfactants They destroy the protective layer, and the coating will lose its properties in 2-3 months.

How to clean drawer guides if they are rusty?

Rust on metal guides (Atlant MX 2824-080, Stinol STS 167) is eliminated as follows:

1. Mix soda with water to a paste, apply to the rust for 30 minutes.
2. Wipe with the hard side of a sponge (not metal!).
3. Treat the guides WD-40 or with machine oil to protect against corrosion.

Advice: To prevent rust, lubricate the guides with silicone grease once a month («Liqui Moly Silicon-Fett»).

Is it possible to use a steam generator to clean drawers?

Yes, but with caution:

• ✅ Allowed: for plastic and glass boxes (steam temperature not higher than 100°C).
• ❌ Prohibited: for models with electronic control (Samsung Family Hub) - steam can damage the sensors.
• ⚠️ Nuance: after treatment, wipe the drawers with a dry cloth, as condensation promotes the growth of bacteria.

Alternative: for disinfection, use a UV lamp («Karcher UV 100») - it kills 99.9% of germs without moisture.