The fridge is one of the most important appliances in any home, as it allows us to keep our food fresh and safe for consumption. However, if it is not cleaned and disinfected regularly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs that can affect the health of our family. In this article, we will teach you how to clean and disinfect your fridge properly to keep it in optimal conditions.
Why is it important to clean and disinfect the fridge?
Cleaning and disinfecting the fridge is essential to avoid the accumulation of dirt and bacteria that can damage food and affect health. In addition, a clean and organized fridge allows us to easily find the foods we need and prevents food from being wasted that has been forgotten at the bottom of the fridge.
How often should the fridge be cleaned?
The frequency with which the fridge should be cleaned depends on its use and the amount of food stored in it. In general, it is recommended to clean the fridge at least once a month to keep it in optimal conditions. However, if perishable foods such as meat, fish, or dairy products are stored, it is recommended to clean the fridge more frequently, at least once a week.
In addition, it is important to defrost the freezer at least twice a year to avoid the accumulation of ice and maintain its energy efficiency.
How should the fridge be cleaned and disinfected?
To clean and disinfect the fridge, it is recommended to follow these steps:
- Empty the fridge: The first thing we must do is empty the fridge and freezer of all food and beverages. It is important to do it carefully to avoid spills and stains.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: To clean the fridge, we can use a solution of water and white vinegar or baking soda. We can also add a few drops of lemon to give it a fresh and pleasant aroma. Another option is to use a specific commercial cleaner for fridges.
- Clean the interior of the fridge: With a soft cloth or sponge, we clean the interior of the fridge, paying special attention to the shelves, drawers, and trays. It is important to remove any leftover food or drink that may have stuck to the surfaces.
- Clean the door seals: The door seals of the fridge are a place prone to accumulating dirt and bacteria. To clean them, we can use an old toothbrush and the cleaning solution we have prepared.
- Clean the exterior of the fridge: To clean the exterior of the fridge, we can use the same cleaning solution we have prepared or a specific spray cleaner for stainless steel or plastic. It is important not to use abrasive products that can damage the surface of the fridge.
- Dry the fridge: Once we have cleaned the fridge, it is important to dry it well with a clean, dry cloth before replacing the food and beverages.
How should cleaning and disinfection be carried out?
To carry out the cleaning and disinfection of the fridge effectively, it is important to follow these tips:
- Use natural products: To prevent the fridge from being impregnated with chemical odors, it is recommended to use natural products such as white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.
- Choose the right detergent: It is important to choose a mild detergent that does not damage the surface of the fridge. If we use a commercial cleaner, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using it.
- Avoid damaging the fridge: It is important not to use abrasive products or tools that can damage the surface of the fridge. It is also important not to use hot water to clean the fridge, as it can damage the internal components.
- Use specific tools: To clean the door seals or difficult-to-reach corners, we can use an old toothbrush or a special brush for fridges.
- Replace broken shelves or containers: If we find any broken shelf or container during cleaning, it is important to replace it to prevent food from falling or spilling.
Products and tools for cleaning the fridge
There are a variety of products and tools that can help us clean both the interior and exterior of the fridge. Some of them are:
- Specific commercial solutions for the fridge: There are specific spray cleaners for fridges that can help us effectively remove dirt and bad odors.
- Special brushes: To clean the door seals or difficult-to-reach corners, we can use an old toothbrush or a special brush for fridges.
- Spray cleaners: Spray cleaners are a quick and effective option for cleaning the exterior of the fridge.
- White stone: White stone is a natural product that can help us remove stains and dirt from the fridge.
- Air purifiers: Air purifiers can help us keep the fridge free of bad odors and bacteria.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant that can help us eliminate bacteria and germs from the fridge.
- Odor neutralizers: Odor neutralizers can help us effectively eliminate bad odors from the fridge.
Our advice
Cleaning and disinfecting the fridge is essential to keep our food fresh and safe for consumption. To clean the fridge effectively, it is important to use natural products, choose the right detergent, and avoid damaging the fridge during cleaning. In addition, it is important to clean the fridge regularly and replace broken shelves or containers to keep it in optimal conditions. By following these tips, you can keep your fridge clean and organized, and prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria that can affect the health of your family.