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

A new refrigerator is not only an update to the kitchen, but also responsibility for its proper operation from the first minutes. Many users mistakenly believe that it is enough to wipe the shelves with a damp cloth, but in fact the first wash requires a special approach. During production, transportation and storage, technical oils, dust, plastic microfibers and even traces of packaging materials remain on surfaces. If they are not removed, they can become a source of unpleasant odor or even affect the taste of the products.

In this article we will look at How can you wash a new refrigerator inside and outsidewhich products are strictly prohibited, and why even “eco-friendly” solutions can harm modern coated models. AntiBacterial or system NoFrost. You will also learn how to prepare the refrigerator for the first use in order to avoid typical mistakes that shorten the life of the equipment.

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

Many manufacturers, including Samsung, LG i Bosch, the instructions indicate: "Before first use, wash the internal surfaces with warm water and a mild detergent.". But what is hidden behind this phrase? The fact is that:

• 🧴 Technical fats and siliconesused during assembly remain on the seals and the back wall. They are not washed off with ordinary water and oxidize over time, creating a sticky film.
• 🏭 Dust and microparticles from the packaging foam penetrate into the ventilation holes of the systems NoFrostwhich can lead to clogging and increased noise.
• 🦠 Bacteria from the factory (yes, they exist even on new equipment!) can begin to multiply in the first hours of operation if disinfectant solutions are not used.

Moreover, in 80% of cases, the unpleasant “plastic” smell in a new refrigerator occurs precisely because of improper first washing, and not because of the “weathering” of materials. This is confirmed by research from the company Liebherr, which tested the effect of different detergents on the microclimate of the chamber.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator equipped with a AirFlow or MultiAirFlow system (for example, model Samsung RB37A5200 or LG GC-B247JLVL), never direct a stream of water or steam at the ventilation grilles. Moisture ingress can damage the uniform air distribution system.

How can you wash a new refrigerator: safe products

The choice of detergent depends on material of internal surfaces the type of cooling system. Here are the proven options:

For models with a system NoFrost (for example, Indesit DF 5200 W or ATLANT XM 4021-000) it is especially important to avoid products that form foam - it can get into the drainage hole and cause a blockage. In this case, it is better to use special napkins for equipment (Clatronic or Karcher) or a solution of ammonia (1 tsp per 1 liter of water).

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 5 key steps. Follow them in strict order so as not to. damage the equipment:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains (even if it has not been turned on yet!). This will prevent accidental start of the compressor during washing.
2. Remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, containers, racks They need to be washed separately in warm water. data-i="117">Remove all removable elements
3. Wipe the internal surfaces with a soda solution or soap solution using a soft sponge. Movements should be directed from top to bottom.
4. Treat the sealing rubber with a cotton swab soaked in a solution of ammonia. (1:10 with water). This will remove technical oils and prevent cracking.
5. Dry. refrigerator with the door open. Use a fan to speed up the process, but do not direct the air flow directly to the electronic panels.

Remove all stickers and labels from the body

Check the integrity of the sealing rubber

Wipe the condenser (grid on the back wall) with a dry cloth

Make sure that the drainage hole is not clogged

Connect the refrigerator to the network only after it has completely dried-->

For models with electronic control (for example, Samsung RS62R5001M9 or LG Instaview Door-in-Door) after washing, you need to reset the settings to factory settings. this:

1. Press and hold the button Power Cool + Fridge for 5 seconds.
2. In the menu, select Reset → Factory Default.
3. Confirm reset (on some models you will need to enter a code 0000).

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a function Smart Diagnosis (as in models LG), do not use products with a strong smell (for example, pine or citrus flavors) for washing. They can interfere with the operation of air analysis sensors, which will lead to false diagnostic errors.

What should not be used to wash a new refrigerator: black list of products

Some "folk" remedies that are often recommended on the Internet can irreversibly damage here is what is strictly prohibited:

• 🧪 Vinegar essence (even diluted) - corrodes the antibacterial coating and rubber seals. Only a 3% solution of table vinegar is allowed to remove odors, but not for regular washing.
• 🧼 Washing powder - leaves microcrystals that clog the drainage system. Particularly dangerous for models. c LowFrost.
• 🔥 Hot water (above 40°C) - deforms plastic parts and can damage the display on smart refrigerators.
• 🧴 Dishwasher detergents (for example, Finish or Somat) - contain aggressive surfactants that destroy the coating EasyClean.
• 🧽 Metal sponges or scrapers - scratch the surface, which leads to the accumulation of bacteria in microcracks.

A separate warning for owners of refrigerators with air ionizers (for example, Panasonic NR-B57VX1 or Sharp SJ-FX630V-SL): the use of chlorine-containing products (for example, "White") neutralizes the effect of ionization for 2-3 weeks. During this period, the refrigerator will be less able to destroy bacteria.

Features of washing refrigerators with different cooling systems

The type of cooling system dictates its own rules of care. Let's figure out what the differences are:

1. Drip system (Direct Cool)

The most common in budget models (ATLANT, Biryusa, Indesit). data-i="171">through which condensate drains. For washing: do not damage the drainage hole, through which condensate drains. For washing:

• Use only soft sponges without abrasives.
• Clean the hole with a cotton swab dipped in soda solution.
• Do not direct the water stream at the back wall - this may disrupt heat transfer.

2. NoFrost (Full NoFrost or Total NoFrost)

System without frost (models Liebherr CN 4315, Bosch KGE39AW20R) requires special care:

• 🚫 It is forbidden to wash the ventilation grilles —they can only be wiped with a dry cloth.
• To remove dust from the air ducts, use vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle at minimum power.
• After washing, turn on the mode Super Cooling for 1 hour to dry the system.

3. defrosting)

Hybrid system (for example, in Gorenje RK 6292 AW). It is important here:

• Wipe the evaporator (usually located on the back wall) only with a dry cloth.
• Do not use products with oils - they can clog the capillary tubes.

What will happen if you do not wash the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time?

In the first 2-3 weeks of operation, a persistent chemical odor may appear in the refrigerator, which will be absorbed into the plastic and will be felt even after general cleaning. In addition, technical oils on the seal lead to its cracking after 6-8 months. (instead of the standard 5-7 years of service). In systems NoFrost dust from the factory can cause overheating of the fan and its premature failure.

How to get rid of the smell of plastic in a new refrigerator

Even after thorough washing, many people face a problem: the refrigerator smells of “chemicals” This is normal for the first days, but if. the smell does not disappear after a week, you need to act:

1. Rinse all removable elements citric acid solution (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water) and dry in the open air for 12 hours.
2. Use odor absorbers:
   • 🍋 Lemon slices on a plate (change every 2 days).
   • ☕ Ground coffee in an open jar (absorbs odors in 24 hours).
   • 🧂 A pack of soda laid out on the shelves.

Turn on the intensive ventilation mode (if yes). For example, in refrigerators Samsung this is an option Power Cool.

Check the seal - often the smell comes from there. Wipe it with a solution of hydrogen peroxide (3%).

For models with charcoal filters (for example, Hitachi R-WB630PUC6), the smell can persist for up to 3 weeks - this is normal, as the filter “gets used” to the new environment. Vacation mode (if it is in your model), which ventilates the chamber without cooling, will help speed up the process.

⚠️ Attention: If the smell reminds of burnt or burnt plastic, immediately unplug the refrigerator! This may indicate a manufacturing defect (compressor overheating or a short circuit in the wiring). In this case, you need to contact us. to the service center - self-washing will not help here.

Common mistakes when washing the refrigerator for the first time

Even experienced housewives sometimes make mistakes, which later turn into problems:

• 🚿 Using a shower or a strong stream of water - this leads to moisture getting into the electronic unit (on models with a display) or clogging of the drain.
• 🧻 Using paper towels for drying —they leave microfibers, which then stick to the products.
• ❄️ Turning on the refrigerator immediately after washing —moisture on the evaporator can freeze and damage the system NoFrost.
• 🧴 Mixing different detergents —for example, soda + vinegar give a reaction that corrodes plastic.
• 🔌 Connecting to the network with wet hands —risk of electric shock, especially on models with a metal body.

Another typical mistake is ignoring the external wash. Transport dust accumulates on the refrigerator body (especially on the back wall), which can penetrate when the compressor heats up. inside through the ventilation holes. Wipe the housing with a dry microfiber clothand the condenser grill with a vacuum cleaner with a brush.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the first washing of a refrigerator

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

No, this is categorically It is prohibited! Steam penetrates into electronic units and can cause corrosion of contacts. The exception is models with the function Steam Clean (for example, Panasonic NR-BR4718S), but in this case, use only the mode provided by the manufacturer.

Do you need to wash the refrigerator if it was in the package?

Yes, necessarily! The packaging protects from mechanical damage, but not from dust and technical fats. Even if the refrigerator looks clean, dirt remains on it at the micro level.

How long after washing can you turn on the refrigerator?

Minimum after 2 hours (for models with NoFrost) and 4-6 hours for drip systems. evaporate, otherwise there is a risk of a short circuit or icing of the evaporator.

How to wash a refrigerator with an antibacterial SilverNano coating?

Only with neutral pH (5.5-7.0) soda solution or special wipes are suitable. Silver Care. that contains chlorine, alcohol or abrasives - this destroys the ionic coating.

Is it possible to use fragrances for the refrigerator immediately after washing?

No, wait 3-5 days. Fragrances (even natural ones) can react with the residues of the detergent, which will increase the chemical smell. It is better to first let the refrigerator “air out” in the working place. mode.