A modern refrigerator is a complex engineering structure where metal is adjacent to polymers, each of which performs a strictly defined function. Internal shelves, drawers for vegetables, decorative panels and even insulation - all this is created from various types of plastic, selected for specific temperature and mechanical loads. Understanding what kind of material is used in your model helps not only to carefully operate the equipment, but also to properly care for it, avoiding damage during cleaning.
Manufacturers of household appliances use polymer materials not just to save money, but due to their unique properties: lightness, low thermal conductivity and resistance to moisture. However, the chemical composition of these materials differs radically. If you try to wash a polystyrene shelf with aggressive chemicals or put a hot pan in a box made of ordinary polyethylene, the consequences may be irreversible. That is why it is important to understand the markings and physical properties of the components of your unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main types of plastic used in refrigeration equipment, their advantages and vulnerabilities. You will learn why some parts are transparent and hard, while others are matte and flexible, and how this affects the service life of your equipment. It is critical to know that the internal lining of the camera is often made of ABS plastic, which is afraid of contact with aceto-containing solvents.
The main types of plastic in the design refrigerator
The interior space of the refrigerator and freezer compartments is a zone of extreme temperature changes and high humidity. That is why special engineering plastics are used here. The most common material for the manufacture of internal walls and doors is ABS plastic (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). This is an impact-resistant thermoplastic resin that perfectly withstands low temperatures and mechanical stress, but it is sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and some chemicals.
For transparent shelves and drawers, polystyrene or its modifications are most often used. This material is highly transparent and rigid, allowing you to see the contents without opening the containers. However, it is more fragile in cold weather compared to ABS. In freezers where temperatures drop below -20°C, it is often used polypropylene (PP)as it retains its elasticity and does not crack even with strong cooling.
Polyurethane foam (PPU) deserves special attention. It is this material, hidden between the outer metal casing and the inner plastic chamber, that is responsible for thermal insulation. It foams directly in the factory, filling all voids. Polyurethane foam is a rigid foam that does not absorb moisture and has excellent insulating properties, remaining stable over decades of use.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to replace or restore a layer of polyurethane foam yourself. Violation of the integrity of the insulating circuit will lead to a sharp increase in energy consumption and the formation of condensation inside the walls.
Characteristics and marking of materials
To determine what kind of plastic is used in your refrigerator, just carefully examine the back of the shelves or the bottom of the drawers. Manufacturers are required to apply a special marking in the form of a triangle with a number inside or a letter code. This is not just a recycling logo, but an accurate indicator of the chemical composition of the material. Knowing these codes, you can predict the behavior of the part when in contact with various substances.
The most common markings in household appliances include:
- ♻️ PS (Polystyrene) —a solid, transparent or translucent material, often used for interior shelves and drawer lids. Afraid of high temperatures and aggressive solvents.
- ♻️ ABS — often labeled as “7 OTHER” or has a separate letter designation. Used to mold the inner body of the camera. Excellent impact resistance, but low chemical resistance to fats and oils.
- ♻️ PP (Polypropylene) —marked with the number 5. Translucent, often white, flexible material. Ideal for freezers, as it does not break in the cold.
- ♻️ PE (Polyethylene) —marked with numbers 2 (HDPE) or 4 (LDPE). Used for flexible elements, gaskets and some types of containers.
It is important to understand that different parts of the same box can be made of different materials. For example, the body may be made of polypropylene, and the transparent insert may be made of polystyrene. This is done to optimize cost and functionality. When cleaning such components, you need to focus on the properties of the most sensitive material, so as not to damage the structure of the plastic.
Comparative table of material properties
For clarity, consider the main differences between the materials used in the production of refrigerators. Understanding these differences will help you avoid common operating mistakes, such as washing with hot water or using the wrong cleaning products.
| Material | Temperature range | Chemical resistance | Main use |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS plastic | from -40°C to +80°C | Low (afraid of fats, alcohol) | Internal walls, doors |
| Polystyrene (PS) | from -40°C to +70°C | Medium (afraid of solvents) | Shelves, transparent lids |
| Polypropylene (PP) | from -20°C to +130°C | High (inert to acids) | Freezer boxes, containers |
| Polyethylene (PE) | from -70°C to +60°C | Very high | Seals, flexible inserts |
As can be seen from the table, polypropylene is the most heat-resistant and chemically inert material, which makes it ideal for storing products with active media or for use in freezers. At the same time, ABS, which forms the basis of the internal volume, requires more delicate handling. It is easily damaged by concentrated acids or alkalis, which may be contained in some industrial cleaning products.
It is also worth noting that during the production of plastic, special additives are often added to it: flame retardants to reduce flammability, plasticizers for flexibility, or dyes that are resistant to fading. The quality of these additives directly affects the durability of the part. Cheap plastic can turn yellow or become brittle over time, especially in areas of contact with a compressor or lighting.
Safety and interaction with products
The issue of safety of materials in contact with food is one of the most important. All plastic used in the interior of the refrigerator must be appropriately certified and labeled “glass and fork”, which means it is approved for contact with food. However, even food-grade plastic has its limitations. For example, fatty foods (meat, butter, cheese) when stored for a long time in a poor-quality container can draw harmful substances from the plastic.
Particular care should be taken when defrosting. Many users make the mistake of using a hair dryer or hot water to speed up the process. A sharp temperature change can lead to deformation polymer panels or even the appearance of cracks in the places where the shelves are attached. Plastic contracts and expands when the temperature changes, and if this process occurs too quickly, the internal stress of the material leads to destruction.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use sharp objects (knives, scrapers) to chip ice. One wrong move can pierce not only the plastic box, but also the evaporator hidden underneath, which will lead to a refrigerant leak and costly repairs.
In addition, some types of plastic can absorb odors. If you store open products with a strong aroma (fish, smoked meats) in a plastic box, the smell may be absorbed into the pores of the material and not disappear for a long time. In such cases, it is recommended to use additional containers with airtight lids or cling film.
Why does plastic turn yellow over time?
The yellowness of plastic is the result of oxidation of the material under the influence of oxygen, ultraviolet radiation (from a refrigerator lamp) and temperature changes. The process is irreversible, but it can be slowed down by avoiding direct sunlight on the refrigerator and using mild detergents without chlorine.
Care and cleaning of plastic elements
Proper care of the internal plastic surfaces of the refrigerator prolongs its aesthetic appearance and hygiene. For regular cleaning, a warm solution of laundry soap or special dishwashing detergents are best suited. They effectively remove grease and dirt without reacting with polymer base the material.
What to avoid when cleaning:
- 🚫 Acetone and solvents - instantly destroy the structure of ABS plastic, making it sticky and cloudy.
- 🚫 Chlorine-containing products —may cause discoloration (yellowing) and a decrease in the strength of the material.
- 🚫 Hot water (above 50°C) —may cause deformation of thin elements such as bottle holders or partitions.
- 🚫 Hard brushes and scrapers —leave scratches that become breeding grounds for bacteria.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe the surfaces dry with a soft cloth. Remaining moisture at the joints of plastic can lead to the formation of mold, which is very difficult to remove from the porous structures of some types of plastic. Pay special attention to door seals - they also need to be wiped regularly to maintain elasticity.
☑️ Rules for safe cleaning
Repair and replacement of plastic parts
Unfortunately, plastic is a material that is susceptible to mechanical damage. A cracked shelf or broken drawer is a common problem. Can the part be repaired or does it need to be replaced? In most cases, repairs are temporary. Glue, even special for plastic, works worse in conditions of constant cold and vibration than at room temperature.
If you decide to replace a part, look for original spare parts by the catalog number of your model. Universal solutions (“suitable for all refrigerators”) often have inaccurate dimensions, which can disrupt the air circulation inside the chamber or lead to jamming of the door. Original components are made of the same materials as in production, guaranteeing compatibility and safety.
When independently When installing new shelves or drawers, proceed carefully. Plastic becomes more fragile in the cold. Before installing the new part, let it sit at room temperature for several hours to warm it up and become more flexible. This will reduce the risk of breakage of fasteners during installation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can plastic ones be washed Are the refrigerator shelves in the dishwasher?
In most cases, no. Dishwasher water temperatures (60-70°C) may exceed the permissible limit for some plastics (especially polystyrene), causing warping. In addition, aggressive cleaning tablets can damage the surface. It is better to wash by hand.
How to glue a cracked plastic box?
For repairs, you can use special adhesives for plastic (based on dichloroethane or cyanoacrylate), but remember that the seam will be a weak point. For food containers, repairs with glue are not recommended due to the toxicity of the glue. It is better to replace the part.
Why has the plastic inside the refrigerator become sticky?
This is a sign of destruction of the top layer of plastic under the influence of fats, oils or unsuitable cleaning agents. The process is called polymer degradation. It is impossible to wash it off; only replacing the part or using liners will help.
Is yellow plastic safe for storing food?
If the plastic has turned yellow over time, but has no foreign odor and does not crumble, it is usually safe. However, yellowness indicates aging of the material, and its strength has decreased. If a strong smell appears, it is better to replace the part.
Which plastic is the most durable for the freezer?
Polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) are considered the most resistant to low temperatures. They do not lose elasticity even at -30°C, unlike polystyrene, which in severe frost can crack from impact.