🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 144 (from laksa122)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa144.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-clean-fridge\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-clean-fridge\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/how-to-clean-fridge","crawl_time":1776009782,"first_indexed_time":1676070499,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,bonappetit!www,\/story\/how-to-clean-fridge s443","src_root_hash":"6389551939407734344","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Clean Your Fridge in a Few Easy Steps | Bon Appétit","meta_descriptions":["The trick to cleaning your fridge is having a good game plan (like this one!) and moving swiftly. Grab your cleaning supplies and let's make that icebox sparkle."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun?\n \nWelcome to BA’s Cleaning Week\n: Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done.\nI’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean \nmy\nfridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck.\nThe Bon Appétit daily newsletter\nOur very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day.\nBut beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to \nthe USDA\n, a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while \nMichigan State University\npoints out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria.\nHealth and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap.\nTake it all out.\nTo really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year?\nIf you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “\n2-Hour Rule\n” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime.\nOdds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part.\nScrub, scrub, scrub.\nFor regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it). \nWith the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a \ndedicated stainless-steel cleaner\nto keep things extra shiny.\nOnce you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/how-to-clean-fridge#main-content)\n\n[SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/v2\/offers\/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_CTA_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB)\n\n[SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/v2\/offers\/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_CTA_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB)\n\n[Newsletter](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/newsletter?sourceCode=navbar)\n\n[Recipes](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/recipes)\n\n[Drinks](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/drinks)\n\n[Cooking](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/cooking)\n\n[Shopping](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/shopping)\n\n[Restaurants](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/restaurants)\n\n[Culture](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/culture)\n\n[Video](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/video)\n\n[Sign In](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/auth\/initiate?redirectURL=%2Fstory%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge&source=VERSO_NAVIGATION)\n\n[Recipes](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/recipes)\n\n[Drinks](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/drinks)\n\n[Cooking](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/cooking)\n\n[Shopping](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/shopping)\n\n[Restaurants](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/restaurants%20)\n\n[Culture](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/culture)\n\n[Video](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/video)\n\n[Podcast](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/podcast\/dinner-sos)\n\n[Merch](https:\/\/shop.bonappetit.com\/)\n\n[Culinary Getaways](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/culinary-getaways)\n\n[Bon Appétit Wine Shop](http:\/\/bonappetitwineshop.com\/)\n\n[Search](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/search)\n\n[Sign In](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/auth\/initiate?redirectURL=%2Fstory%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge&source=VERSO_NAVIGATION)\n\n[Newsletter](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/newsletter?sourceCode=hamburgernav)\n\n[![WHERE FOOD \\<br\\> MEETS CULTURE \\<br\\> Expand your horizons with global flavours and vibrant ideas. Just \\<strong\\>\\$3\/month\\<\/strong\\> for 1 year. \\<br\\> CTA: SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/695c2c994a6f2e333cbbbcc8\/original\/pass\/BA_Culture_Overlay_300x200_NFT_01a.gif?format=original)](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/v2\/offers\/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_ROLLOVER_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB)\n\nGet one year of unlimited access for just ~~\\$6~~ \\$3\/month—cancel anytime. [GET DIGITAL ACCESS](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/v2\/offers\/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_PAYWALL_THIN_METER_ARTICLE_1_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB)\n\n[Cooking](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/cooking)\n\n# How to Clean Your Fridge Without Ruining All Your Food\n\nAll you need is a good game plan—like this one.\n\n![](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/66a2de54f7e9931014d94983\/1:1\/w_90%2Cc_limit\/alma-avalle_061724_5083_VOG_final.jpg)\n\nBy [Alma Avalle](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/contributor\/alma-avalle)\n\nFebruary 19, 2023\n\n![Someone wiping down a blue fridge with a silver sponge.](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/63e6bf4e83d252f36ec35f81\/16:9\/w_2560%2Cc_limit\/20230206-CLEANING-11721-HIRES.jpg)\n\nPhotograph by Isa Zapata, Prop styling by Emma Ringness\n\nAll products featured on Bon Appétit are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and\/or from purchases of products through these links.\n\n*Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun?* [***Welcome to BA’s Cleaning Week***](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/kitchen-cleaning)*: Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done.*\n\nI’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean *my* fridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck.\n\n### The Bon Appétit daily newsletter\nOur very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day.\n\nBut beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to [the USDA](https:\/\/ask.usda.gov\/s\/article\/Can-bacteria-grow-in-the-refrigerator#:~:text=Spoilage%20bacteria%20can%20grow%20at,probably%20would%20not%20get%20sick.), a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while [Michigan State University](https:\/\/www.canr.msu.edu\/news\/what_is_growing_in_your_refrigerator_or_freezer) points out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria.\n\nWatch\n\n[Only 16 People a Night Can Eat This 17-Course Omakase](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/video\/watch\/on-the-line-only-16-people-a-night-can-eat-this-17-course-omakase)\n\nHealth and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap.\n\n## Take it all out.\nTo really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year?\n\nIf you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “[2-Hour Rule](https:\/\/ask.usda.gov\/s\/article\/What-is-the-2-Hour-Rule-with-leaving-food-out)” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime.\n\nOdds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part.\n\n## Scrub, scrub, scrub.\nFor regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it).\n\nWith the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a [dedicated stainless-steel cleaner](https:\/\/cna.st\/affiliate-link\/qWr6YUDVveeMoeGBNDCDoKazVk2h4Ai758rwkCRkBewiw2qPgLqh2z4FwrmeZ5HMkZFbHCbH2UrVsvKJJvhZpnaGKCUE49RBYK85R2yv5yKAiTruthHWZRUfgcqpdtnU9Po97EmziKca9unCmUekazhP6hx6yw9Ab7NtH9JvAEyXgpjMFqqMks5VTyYGbUFPuoWzpXnpWuucvZN97gUFewK9zMgVQxhmvTnSwb712QBzWN7uYuWJto9QQ3hKoXMFaABtLg6PU4jH5Rsq3y58m29N9ubitFvWgXMH4jBa9hm3uQgRZQYsmj8wtQMroZzLXdY7DeFiuMsBDDqiLbXvYHYRrsPvPcySiCozzuirJzKR57y) to keep things extra shiny.\n\nOnce you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on.\n\n## Deep clean as needed.\nUsing dish soap and tap water is fine most of the time—but occasionally opting for a deep clean can combat stubborn messes and sanitize more thoroughly. Twice a year (or more if any [food in your fridge was recently recalled](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/foodsafety\/communication\/clean-refrigerator-steps.html)) follow the steps above, then finish up by cleaning with a more intense disinfectant. Either in a bucket or spray bottle, you can mix a solution of 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 gallon water, then get to wiping with a soft cloth or paper towels. (Heads up: If you are using bleach, be sure to avoid cleaning products with ammonia, as the two create a dangerous chemical reaction when mixed.) For a less abrasive cleaner, try a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.\n\nDeep cleans are a good time to go over other hard-to-reach spots like the rubber gasket around the door seal, where moisture and gunk can accumulate over time. Be sure to wipe down all of the shelf and drawer tracks while you’re at it.\n\n## Put it back together.\nTo reconstruct your fridge, just work in reverse. Start by replacing the shelves and drawers, making sure they’re completely dry before you slide them into place. Then you can start putting back all of your food. This is the moment to reconsider the layout of your fridge and give yourself a tidy baseline going forward. I recommend keeping a space clear for rising doughs, marinating meats, or other sizable cooking projects. And remember, [dairy spoils faster if you keep it in the door](https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/7937278\/foods-you-should-never-store-in-the-refrigerator-door\/#:~:text=the%20Refrigerator%20Door-,Milk,increase%20the%20odds%20of%20spoilage.).\n\n## What about the freezer?\nFreezers’ ice-cold temperatures mean they don’t need cleaning as often, but the Whirlpool company suggests users clean their iceboxes [at least once per year](https:\/\/www.whirlpool.com\/blog\/kitchen\/how-to-defrost-a-freezer.html#:~:text=You%20should%20aim%20to%20defrost,how%20to%20defrost%20your%20freezer.). To clean your freezer, start by moving everything you hope to keep to a well-insulated cooler with ice. This is because you’ll need to defrost your freezer, which means unplugging it for several hours to reach room temperature and melt any accumulated ice. Be warned: That melted ice is going to drip, so be sure to place some dry rags and towels on and beneath the door to prevent big messes. Once the ice has melted, the process is the same as deep cleaning your fridge:\n\nRemove the shelves and scrub everything with soap, then deep clean with a bleach or vinegar solution. Take extra precaution to dry out your freezer before plugging it back in, as any standing water will freeze when the power comes back, undoing all your hard work. While it’s admittedly a pain, regular defrosting does help your freezer function better in the long run, which means colder, safer temperatures and lower energy bills. It’s also a good reminder to eat that soup from last season.\n\n![Red Lentil Soup With Preserved Lemon and Crispy Garlic in a bowl](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/61f438452386a674750a5f37\/master\/w_775%2Cc_limit\/20220118%2520Lentil%2520Soup%2520LEDE.jpg)\n\n[Red Lentil Soup With Preserved Lemon and Crispy Garlic](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/recipe\/red-lentil-soup-with-preserved-lemon)\n\nThat bag of lentils in the back of your pantry is in for a major glow-up.\n\n[View Recipe](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/recipe\/red-lentil-soup-with-preserved-lemon)\n## Messy kitchen? More sparkling stories from Bon Appétit's Cleaning Week:\n- [Our Cleaning Week Hub Page](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/kitchen-cleaning)\n- [How to Clean Your Microwave Without Breaking a Sweat](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/how-to-clean-microwave)\n- [How to Clean a Coffee Maker: Keurig, French Press, and More](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/how-to-clean-coffee-maker)\n- [This Stain Remover Is for Fabric, But It Works Wonders on My Countertops](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/defunkify)\n- [Yes, You Can (and Should) Clean Your Cast-Iron Skillet With Soap](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/clean-cast-iron-skillet)\n\n[![](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/66a2de54f7e9931014d94983\/1:1\/w_90%2Cc_limit\/alma-avalle_061724_5083_VOG_final.jpg)](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/contributor\/alma-avalle)\n\n[Alma Avalle](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/contributor\/alma-avalle) is Bon Appétit’s editorial operations associate and web producer. She is also a reporter and journalist covering [drinks](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/shaken-vs-stirred), [food science](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/toast-your-salt), and [all things new](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/andrea-hernandez-snaxshot) and [nerdy](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/cooking-switch-games) for our website and magazine. Raised in New England, Bolivia, and Guatemala, she's currently based in Brooklyn, where she's also a writer, ... [Read More](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/contributor\/alma-avalle)\n\nEditorial Operations Associate\n\nExplore Bon Appétit[cooking](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/misc\/cooking)\n\n### The best of BA in your inbox every day\nRecipes to cook, products to add to your kitchen, and stories to bookmark for your lunch break.\n\nRead More\n\n- [![6 New Snacks We’ll Be Eating All April](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69cbfd5650d363630aaa4d39\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Shopping 6 New Snacks We’ll Be Eating All April By Alaina Chou](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/snack-drop-april-2026#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![10 Chefs Share the Pans They Use Most in Their Restaurants](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69c6b20bfebcd3f756b93099\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Shopping 10 Chefs Share the Pans They Use Most in Their Restaurants By Noah Kaufman](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/chefs-favorite-pans-video#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![This Bone Broth Soup Is a Meal, Not a Cleanse](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69bc1dca9bd65664fc6d3749\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Cooking This Bone Broth Soup Is a Meal, Not a Cleanse By Rebecca Firkser](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/good-for-you-bone-broth#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Everything BA Editors Tried, Tasted, and Loved in March](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69cd3121b5c43cb9a6abbb3f\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Shopping Everything BA Editors Tried, Tasted, and Loved in March By Alaina Chou](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/march-editors-picks#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Here’s How to Submit to BA’s Pantry Awards for 2026](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/5d93b415331fc40008af7c55\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Shopping Here’s How to Submit to BA’s Pantry Awards for 2026 By Editors of Bon Appétit](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/pantry-awards-2026-submissions#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Slice Your Loaf Cake Before You Bake It](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/698a4c2c7c83caad4ecc26ee\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Cooking Slice Your Loaf Cake Before You Bake It By Jesse Szewczyk](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/slit-cake-batter#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Potato Chips Are My Chicest Party Trick](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69a9c5ad5244995ed7905c83\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Cooking Potato Chips Are My Chicest Party Trick By Anna Hezel](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/potato-chips-are-my-chicest-party-trick#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Does Flour Go Bad? 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By Chris Morocco](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/what-is-a-weeknight-recipe#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![The Artemis II Mission Has Five Separate Hot Sauces for Some Reason](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69cfc7b2e3d2f3a8deda89d3\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Culture The Artemis II Mission Has Five Separate Hot Sauces for Some Reason By Sam Stone](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/the-artemis-ii-mission-hot-sauces#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n- [![Bone Broth Soup and More Recipes We Made This Week](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/69bc1dcb73e662cfaa2ff9e0\/1:1\/w_640%2Cc_limit\/undefined)Cooking Bone Broth Soup and More Recipes We Made This Week By The Bon Appétit Staff](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/recipes-bon-appetit-editors-cooked-april-2026#intcid=recommendations_bon-appetit-article-bottom-recirc-recsys_a6ff035b-5a4e-4c96-9789-20a866de12a4_roberta-similarity1_roberta-similarity_mongo_bucket)\n\n[![WHERE FOOD \\<br\\> MEETS CULTURE \\<br\\> Expand your horizons with global flavours and vibrant ideas. Just \\<strong\\>\\$3\/month\\<\/strong\\> for 1 year. \\<br\\> CTA:SUBSCRIBE](https:\/\/assets.bonappetit.com\/photos\/695c2cafbe7cc209e2027f5a\/original\/pass\/BA_Culture_Desktop_940x140_NFT_01a.gif?format=original)](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/v2\/offers\/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_FOOTER_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB)\n\n[![Bon Appétit](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/verso\/static\/bonappetit-us\/assets\/logo-reverse.svg)](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/)\n\nRecipes you want to make. Cooking advice that works. Restaurant recommendations you trust.\n\nMore from Bon Appétit\n\n- [ABOUT US](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/about-us)\n- [Masthead](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/digital-masthead)\n- [Newsletter Signup](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/newsletter)\n- [Bon Appétit Media Kit](http:\/\/www.condenast.com\/brands\/bon-appetit\/)\n- [EPICURIOUS](https:\/\/www.epicurious.com\/)\n- [Find Us on the Epicurious App](https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/app\/apple-store\/id312101965?pt=45076&ct=BA_Site_Footer&mt=8)\n- [Archive](https:\/\/archive.bonappetit.com\/)\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/subscribe)\n\nContact\n\n- [Subscription FAQs](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/subscription-faq)\n- [Manage Account](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/account\/profile)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.condenast.com\/careers\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/info\/contact-us)\n\n- [User Agreement](https:\/\/www.condenast.com\/user-agreement\/)\n- [Privacy Policy](http:\/\/www.condenast.com\/privacy-policy#privacypolicy)\n- [Your California Privacy Rights](http:\/\/www.condenast.com\/privacy-policy#privacypolicy-california)\n- [RSS Feeds](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/rss-feeds)\n- [Site Map](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/sitemap)\n- [Accessibility Help](https:\/\/www.bonappetit.com\/story\/accessibility-help)\n- [Condé Nast Store](https:\/\/www.condenaststore.com\/)\n- Your Privacy Choices\n\n© 2026 Condé Nast. All rights reserved. *Bon Appétit* may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. [Ad Choices](http:\/\/www.aboutads.info\/)\n\nFood Innovation Group","attrs_readable_markdown":"*Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun?* [***Welcome to BA’s Cleaning Week***](https:\/\/bonappetit.com\/story\/kitchen-cleaning)*: Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done.*\n\nI’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean *my* fridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck.\n\n### The Bon Appétit daily newsletter\nOur very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day.\n\nBut beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to [the USDA](https:\/\/ask.usda.gov\/s\/article\/Can-bacteria-grow-in-the-refrigerator#:~:text=Spoilage%20bacteria%20can%20grow%20at,probably%20would%20not%20get%20sick.), a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while [Michigan State University](https:\/\/www.canr.msu.edu\/news\/what_is_growing_in_your_refrigerator_or_freezer) points out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria.\n\nHealth and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap.\n\n## Take it all out.\nTo really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year?\n\nIf you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “[2-Hour Rule](https:\/\/ask.usda.gov\/s\/article\/What-is-the-2-Hour-Rule-with-leaving-food-out)” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime.\n\nOdds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part.\n\n## Scrub, scrub, scrub.\nFor regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it).\n\nWith the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a [dedicated stainless-steel cleaner](https:\/\/cna.st\/affiliate-link\/qWr6YUDVveeMoeGBNDCDoKazVk2h4Ai758rwkCRkBewiw2qPgLqh2z4FwrmeZ5HMkZFbHCbH2UrVsvKJJvhZpnaGKCUE49RBYK85R2yv5yKAiTruthHWZRUfgcqpdtnU9Po97EmziKca9unCmUekazhP6hx6yw9Ab7NtH9JvAEyXgpjMFqqMks5VTyYGbUFPuoWzpXnpWuucvZN97gUFewK9zMgVQxhmvTnSwb712QBzWN7uYuWJto9QQ3hKoXMFaABtLg6PU4jH5Rsq3y58m29N9ubitFvWgXMH4jBa9hm3uQgRZQYsmj8wtQMroZzLXdY7DeFiuMsBDDqiLbXvYHYRrsPvPcySiCozzuirJzKR57y) to keep things extra shiny.\n\nOnce you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	The trick to cleaning your fridge is having a good game plan (like this one!) and moving swiftly. Grab your cleaning supplies and let's make that icebox sparkle.
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Boilerpipe Text	Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun? Welcome to BA’s Cleaning Week : Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done. I’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean my fridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck. The Bon Appétit daily newsletter Our very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day. But beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to the USDA , a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while Michigan State University points out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria. Health and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap. Take it all out. To really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year? If you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “ 2-Hour Rule ” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime. Odds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part. Scrub, scrub, scrub. For regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it). With the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a dedicated stainless-steel cleaner to keep things extra shiny. Once you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on.
Markdown	[Skip to main content](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-clean-fridge#main-content) [SUBSCRIBE](https://www.bonappetit.com/v2/offers/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_CTA_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB) [SUBSCRIBE](https://www.bonappetit.com/v2/offers/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_CTA_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB) [Newsletter](https://www.bonappetit.com/newsletter?sourceCode=navbar) [Recipes](https://www.bonappetit.com/recipes) [Drinks](https://www.bonappetit.com/drinks) [Cooking](https://www.bonappetit.com/cooking) [Shopping](https://www.bonappetit.com/shopping) [Restaurants](https://www.bonappetit.com/restaurants) [Culture](https://www.bonappetit.com/culture) [Video](https://www.bonappetit.com/video) [Sign In](https://www.bonappetit.com/auth/initiate?redirectURL=%2Fstory%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge&source=VERSO_NAVIGATION) [Recipes](https://www.bonappetit.com/recipes) [Drinks](https://www.bonappetit.com/drinks) [Cooking](https://www.bonappetit.com/cooking) [Shopping](https://www.bonappetit.com/shopping) [Restaurants](https://www.bonappetit.com/restaurants%20) [Culture](https://www.bonappetit.com/culture) [Video](https://www.bonappetit.com/video) [Podcast](https://www.bonappetit.com/podcast/dinner-sos) [Merch](https://shop.bonappetit.com/) [Culinary Getaways](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/culinary-getaways) [Bon Appétit Wine Shop](http://bonappetitwineshop.com/) [Search](https://www.bonappetit.com/search) [Sign In](https://www.bonappetit.com/auth/initiate?redirectURL=%2Fstory%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge&source=VERSO_NAVIGATION) [Newsletter](https://www.bonappetit.com/newsletter?sourceCode=hamburgernav) [![WHERE FOOD \<br\> MEETS CULTURE \<br\> Expand your horizons with global flavours and vibrant ideas. Just \<strong\>\$3/month\</strong\> for 1 year. \<br\> CTA: SUBSCRIBE](https://assets.bonappetit.com/photos/695c2c994a6f2e333cbbbcc8/original/pass/BA_Culture_Overlay_300x200_NFT_01a.gif?format=original)](https://www.bonappetit.com/v2/offers/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_NAV_ROLLOVER_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB) Get one year of unlimited access for just ~~\$6~~ \$3/month—cancel anytime. [GET DIGITAL ACCESS](https://www.bonappetit.com/v2/offers/baa01039?source=Site_0_JNY_BNA_DESKTOP_PAYWALL_THIN_METER_ARTICLE_1_0_MARCH_2026_CTA_TEST_ZZ_PANELB) [Cooking](https://www.bonappetit.com/cooking) # How to Clean Your Fridge Without Ruining All Your Food All you need is a good game plan—like this one. ![](https://assets.bonappetit.com/photos/66a2de54f7e9931014d94983/1:1/w_90%2Cc_limit/alma-avalle_061724_5083_VOG_final.jpg) By [Alma Avalle](https://www.bonappetit.com/contributor/alma-avalle) February 19, 2023 ![Someone wiping down a blue fridge with a silver sponge.](https://assets.bonappetit.com/photos/63e6bf4e83d252f36ec35f81/16:9/w_2560%2Cc_limit/20230206-CLEANING-11721-HIRES.jpg) Photograph by Isa Zapata, Prop styling by Emma Ringness All products featured on Bon Appétit are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun? [*Welcome to BA’s Cleaning Week](https://bonappetit.com/story/kitchen-cleaning): Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done.* I’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean my fridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck. ### The Bon Appétit daily newsletter Our very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day. But beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to [the USDA](https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Can-bacteria-grow-in-the-refrigerator#:~:text=Spoilage%20bacteria%20can%20grow%20at,probably%20would%20not%20get%20sick.), a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while [Michigan State University](https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what_is_growing_in_your_refrigerator_or_freezer) points out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria. Watch [Only 16 People a Night Can Eat This 17-Course Omakase](https://www.bonappetit.com/video/watch/on-the-line-only-16-people-a-night-can-eat-this-17-course-omakase) Health and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap. ## Take it all out. To really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year? If you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “[2-Hour Rule](https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/What-is-the-2-Hour-Rule-with-leaving-food-out)” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime. Odds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part. ## Scrub, scrub, scrub. For regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it). With the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a [dedicated stainless-steel cleaner](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/qWr6YUDVveeMoeGBNDCDoKazVk2h4Ai758rwkCRkBewiw2qPgLqh2z4FwrmeZ5HMkZFbHCbH2UrVsvKJJvhZpnaGKCUE49RBYK85R2yv5yKAiTruthHWZRUfgcqpdtnU9Po97EmziKca9unCmUekazhP6hx6yw9Ab7NtH9JvAEyXgpjMFqqMks5VTyYGbUFPuoWzpXnpWuucvZN97gUFewK9zMgVQxhmvTnSwb712QBzWN7uYuWJto9QQ3hKoXMFaABtLg6PU4jH5Rsq3y58m29N9ubitFvWgXMH4jBa9hm3uQgRZQYsmj8wtQMroZzLXdY7DeFiuMsBDDqiLbXvYHYRrsPvPcySiCozzuirJzKR57y) to keep things extra shiny. Once you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on. ## Deep clean as needed. Using dish soap and tap water is fine most of the time—but occasionally opting for a deep clean can combat stubborn messes and sanitize more thoroughly. Twice a year (or more if any [food in your fridge was recently recalled](https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/communication/clean-refrigerator-steps.html)) follow the steps above, then finish up by cleaning with a more intense disinfectant. Either in a bucket or spray bottle, you can mix a solution of 1 tablespoon bleach to 1 gallon water, then get to wiping with a soft cloth or paper towels. (Heads up: If you are using bleach, be sure to avoid cleaning products with ammonia, as the two create a dangerous chemical reaction when mixed.) For a less abrasive cleaner, try a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Deep cleans are a good time to go over other hard-to-reach spots like the rubber gasket around the door seal, where moisture and gunk can accumulate over time. Be sure to wipe down all of the shelf and drawer tracks while you’re at it. ## Put it back together. To reconstruct your fridge, just work in reverse. Start by replacing the shelves and drawers, making sure they’re completely dry before you slide them into place. Then you can start putting back all of your food. This is the moment to reconsider the layout of your fridge and give yourself a tidy baseline going forward. I recommend keeping a space clear for rising doughs, marinating meats, or other sizable cooking projects. And remember, [dairy spoils faster if you keep it in the door](https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7937278/foods-you-should-never-store-in-the-refrigerator-door/#:~:text=the%20Refrigerator%20Door-,Milk,increase%20the%20odds%20of%20spoilage.). ## What about the freezer? Freezers’ ice-cold temperatures mean they don’t need cleaning as often, but the Whirlpool company suggests users clean their iceboxes [at least once per year](https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-defrost-a-freezer.html#:~:text=You%20should%20aim%20to%20defrost,how%20to%20defrost%20your%20freezer.). To clean your freezer, start by moving everything you hope to keep to a well-insulated cooler with ice. This is because you’ll need to defrost your freezer, which means unplugging it for several hours to reach room temperature and melt any accumulated ice. Be warned: That melted ice is going to drip, so be sure to place some dry rags and towels on and beneath the door to prevent big messes. Once the ice has melted, the process is the same as deep cleaning your fridge: Remove the shelves and scrub everything with soap, then deep clean with a bleach or vinegar solution. Take extra precaution to dry out your freezer before plugging it back in, as any standing water will freeze when the power comes back, undoing all your hard work. While it’s admittedly a pain, regular defrosting does help your freezer function better in the long run, which means colder, safer temperatures and lower energy bills. It’s also a good reminder to eat that soup from last season. ![Red Lentil Soup With Preserved Lemon and Crispy Garlic in a bowl](https://assets.bonappetit.com/photos/61f438452386a674750a5f37/master/w_775%2Cc_limit/20220118%2520Lentil%2520Soup%2520LEDE.jpg) [Red Lentil Soup With Preserved Lemon and Crispy Garlic](https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/red-lentil-soup-with-preserved-lemon) That bag of lentils in the back of your pantry is in for a major glow-up. [View Recipe](https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/red-lentil-soup-with-preserved-lemon) ## Messy kitchen? More sparkling stories from Bon Appétit's Cleaning Week: - [Our Cleaning Week Hub Page](https://bonappetit.com/story/kitchen-cleaning) - [How to Clean Your Microwave Without Breaking a Sweat](https://bonappetit.com/story/how-to-clean-microwave) - [How to Clean a Coffee Maker: Keurig, French Press, and More](https://bonappetit.com/story/how-to-clean-coffee-maker) - [This Stain Remover Is for Fabric, But It Works Wonders on My Countertops](https://bonappetit.com/story/defunkify) - [Yes, You Can (and Should) Clean Your Cast-Iron Skillet With Soap](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/clean-cast-iron-skillet) [![](https://assets.bonappetit.com/photos/66a2de54f7e9931014d94983/1:1/w_90%2Cc_limit/alma-avalle_061724_5083_VOG_final.jpg)](https://www.bonappetit.com/contributor/alma-avalle) [Alma Avalle](https://www.bonappetit.com/contributor/alma-avalle) is Bon Appétit’s editorial operations associate and web producer. She is also a reporter and journalist covering [drinks](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/shaken-vs-stirred), [food science](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/toast-your-salt), and [all things new](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/andrea-hernandez-snaxshot) and [nerdy](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/cooking-switch-games) for our website and magazine. Raised in New England, Bolivia, and Guatemala, she's currently based in Brooklyn, where she's also a writer, ... [Read More](https://www.bonappetit.com/contributor/alma-avalle) Editorial Operations Associate Explore Bon Appétit[cooking](https://www.bonappetit.com/misc/cooking) ### The best of BA in your inbox every day Recipes to cook, products to add to your kitchen, and stories to bookmark for your lunch break. 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Readable Markdown	Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Dare we say it could be fun? [*Welcome to BA’s Cleaning Week](https://bonappetit.com/story/kitchen-cleaning): Consider this your trusty guide to the nooks and crannies that you definitely are not scrubbing often enough, plus the pro-approved tools and products to get the job done.* I’ll go ahead and say it: You probably need to clean your fridge more often. I probably need to clean my fridge more often. Refrigerators are like revolving doors of produce, meats, condiments, dairy products, take-out containers, beverages, and who knows what else, all with varying origins, expiration dates, and levels of crust dried on top (maybe that last one’s just me). If you think about it for too long, it’s bound to give you the yuck. ### The Bon Appétit daily newsletter Our very best recipes, editor-vetted cookware, and rigorous reporting, all in one place—in your inbox every day. But beyond getting rid of smells, sticky stains, or slimy puddles, cleaning your refrigerator is also the healthy thing to do. Fridges are—and I don’t mean to generalize here—gross. According to [the USDA](https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Can-bacteria-grow-in-the-refrigerator#:~:text=Spoilage%20bacteria%20can%20grow%20at,probably%20would%20not%20get%20sick.), a refrigerator’s low temperature is not enough to stop the growth of germs, while [Michigan State University](https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what_is_growing_in_your_refrigerator_or_freezer) points out that fridges can be breeding grounds for listeria, a common foodborne bacteria. Health and hygiene aside, though, a clean fridge can be a quality of life improvement in its own right—making produce, leftovers, and snacks all the more craveable. And luckily, cleaning your refrigerator regularly makes the task easier in the long run. So grab those gloves and dish soap. ## Take it all out. To really get into the cracks and crevices, you have to empty out your fridge. Move everything into a cardboard box to keep all of the bottles, jars, and other containers nearby. If anything in the box leaks, you can throw it out when you’re done. Use this step as a chance to check expiration dates and reconsider your condiment collection. Do you really need that novelty hot sauce from your road trip last year? If you’re worried about perishables spoiling while you clean, you can place ice packs on any particularly sensitive foodstuffs. Or, if you have an insulated cooler, you can use that instead of the box. But ideally, this whole process shouldn’t take more than an hour or so. The USDA suggests a “[2-Hour Rule](https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/What-is-the-2-Hour-Rule-with-leaving-food-out)” for leaving food out of the refrigerator, which is more than enough time to deal with all that grime. Odds are, as you remove items, you’ll cross paths with dried-out herbs, stray crumbs, or other dusty stuff. Sweep out with a dustpan and brush, or give your fridge surfaces a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. Now onto the fun part. ## Scrub, scrub, scrub. For regular cleanings (aim for once a month), clearing out expired food and scrubbing with a soapy sponge is all you need. First, remove any removable shelves and drawers. Clean these with hot water and dish soap in the sink, then wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth (microfiber is great if you have it). With the shelving done, move on to the main event—the fridge itself. Get a bucket and a sponge, fill it with warm water, add dish soap, and stir until sudsy. It’s time to scrub: As with cars or furniture, work from the top to the bottom. That way, when dirt runs down with the soapy water, it isn’t dripping onto areas you’ve already gotten sparkly. Once you’re done with the interior, wipe down the outside of your fridge as well. If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, consider using a [dedicated stainless-steel cleaner](https://cna.st/affiliate-link/qWr6YUDVveeMoeGBNDCDoKazVk2h4Ai758rwkCRkBewiw2qPgLqh2z4FwrmeZ5HMkZFbHCbH2UrVsvKJJvhZpnaGKCUE49RBYK85R2yv5yKAiTruthHWZRUfgcqpdtnU9Po97EmziKca9unCmUekazhP6hx6yw9Ab7NtH9JvAEyXgpjMFqqMks5VTyYGbUFPuoWzpXnpWuucvZN97gUFewK9zMgVQxhmvTnSwb712QBzWN7uYuWJto9QQ3hKoXMFaABtLg6PU4jH5Rsq3y58m29N9ubitFvWgXMH4jBa9hm3uQgRZQYsmj8wtQMroZzLXdY7DeFiuMsBDDqiLbXvYHYRrsPvPcySiCozzuirJzKR57y) to keep things extra shiny. Once you’re done, be sure to dry the walls and back of the fridge with a clean towel, as excess moisture can pool up once the removable shelves are back in place, creating an unseen mess later on.
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