🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 71 (from laksa185)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa071.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.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/how-to-clean-fridge/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/how-to-clean-fridge/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/how-to-clean-fridge\/","crawl_time":1776167611,"first_indexed_time":1715999747,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,drewandjonathan!www,\/how-to\/how-to-clean-fridge\/ s443","src_root_hash":"14524714784324451871","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Clean a Fridge - Drew & Jonathan","meta_descriptions":["How to clean a refrigerator inside-out, thoroughly and easily. By the end, your refrigerator will smell fresh and look brand-new."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change.\nOne of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you\ntake to clean\n, the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it.\nThe great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush,\nall-purpose cleaner\n, white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean.\n1. First, Empty the Fridge\nTake all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long).\n2. Remove the Shelves and Drawers\nTake out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely.\n3. Don’t Forget the Gaskets\nNow that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.\n4. Fill It Back Up\nSlide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator.\n5. Now, Onto the Exterior\nThink about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel.\n6. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh\nTo maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a\nnatural air freshener that uses activated charcoal\nto keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product.\nThese Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done\nThey provide a versatile clean for every room in the house.\nRead More\nABOUT THE AUTHOR\nAmy Gordon\nAmy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com.\n⚖️ How We Choose What to Recommend","attrs_markdown":"![fbpx](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tr?id=2148587982147870&ev=PageView&noscript=1)\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/how-to-clean-fridge\/#primary)\n\n🧽 [Sign Up for Our Spring Cleaning Challenge 2026](http:\/\/drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/spring-cleaning-challenge\/) 🧺\n\n[![Drew & Jonathan](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/DJ_Logo_Primary_Black.svg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/)\n\nPrimary Menu\n\n- [Latest](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/latest-stories\/)\n  - - - ![Scott brothers smiling and posing together, one standing behind the other](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201017'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n        ![Scott brothers smiling and posing together, one standing behind the other](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/bros-size1-e1710518695321.png)\n    - - [Latest](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/latest-stories\/)\n        - [Jonathan’s Advice on Combining Interior Design Styles with Your Partner](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/design-and-decor\/jonathan-scott-how-to-combine-interior-design-styles\/)\n        - [Our 7-Day Cleaning Challenge Is Back (And All New!): Here’s How to Sign Up](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/spring-cleaning-challenge\/)\n        - [Our Editors’ All-Time Favorite IKEA Products, From Dressers to Lighting](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/design-and-decor\/best-ikea-products-reviews\/)\n        - [14 Best Beds With Storage That Look Stylish, Too](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/design-and-decor\/best-beds-with-storage\/)\n        - [Every 2026 Color of the Year We Know So Far and How to Style Them](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/design-and-decor\/color-of-the-year-2026-ideas-inspiration\/)\n        - [The Best Vacuum Cleaners for 2026, According to Our Editors](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-vacuum-cleaners\/)\n- [Shows](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/our-shows\/)\n  - - - ![Scott brothers smiling and posing together, one standing behind the other](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%201017'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n        ![Scott brothers smiling and posing together, one standing behind the other](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/bros-size1-e1710518695321.png)\n    - - [Our Shows](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/our-shows\/)\n        - [Chasing the West](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/chasing-the-west\/)\n        - [Celebrity IOU](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/celebrity-iou\/)\n        - [Don't Hate Your House](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/dont-hate-your-house\/)\n        - [Backed by the Bros](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/backed-by-the-bros\/)\n        - [Property Brothers](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/property-brothers\/)\n        - [Brother Vs. 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Plus, opt in to our 7-Day Cleaning Challenge to get exclusive cleaning tips each day over the next week\\!\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/) \\> [How To](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/) \\> [Cleaning](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/cleaning\/) \\> How to Clean a Fridge\n\n# How to Clean a Fridge\nIs there anything more satisfying than a freshly-cleaned fridge?\n\nBy [Amy Gordon](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/author\/amy_gordon\/) \\| February 23, 2024\n\n![how to clean a fridge](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/shutterstock_318263891-scaled.jpg)\n\nThis site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change.\n\nOne of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you [take to clean](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/ultimate-cleaning-tips-guide\/), the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it.\n\nThe great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush, [all-purpose cleaner](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/), white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean.\n\n## 1\\. First, Empty the Fridge\nTake all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long).\n\n## 2\\. Remove the Shelves and Drawers\nTake out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely.\n\n## 3\\. Don’t Forget the Gaskets\nNow that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.\n\n## 4\\. Fill It Back Up\nSlide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator.\n\n## 5\\. Now, Onto the Exterior\nThink about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel.\n\n## 6\\. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh\nTo maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a [natural air freshener that uses activated charcoal](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B09VZ11WHK?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B09VZ11WHK&pd_rd_w=JkeZC&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=V2GZTY1QZTFCZMGW170R&pd_rd_wg=fMZqi&pd_rd_r=ca7acb3c-ac2a-40e0-8ea6-37e2dd6a7ead&s=hpc&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=a97f6aa51a05146f0df73e48e96890db&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) to keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product.\n\n[![color-changing scrub daddy 3-pack](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![color-changing scrub daddy 3-pack](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/scrub-daddy-color-sponges.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Scrub-Daddy-Color-Sponge-Scratch-Free\/dp\/B0CJ1NHWGX?crid=GU9PZ2KA8M71&keywords=scrub%2Bdaddy%2Bsponges&qid=1707330038&sprefix=sc%2Caps%2C230&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=7a1c06cc608e90b74139a5b346f4860e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)\n\n#### [Scrub Daddy Color Sponge, 3 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Now](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Heinz-Vinegar-Distilled-White-32\/dp\/B000RAB7F0?crid=2C60O8GM13PX3&keywords=white+vinegar&qid=1706895377&s=grocery&sprefix=white+vinega%2Cgrocery%2C158&sr=1-4&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=66d4cc2427dd8fe170fae688b1e75377&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)\n\n[![stainless steel cleaner](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![stainless steel cleaner](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/stainlesssteelcleaner.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Weiman-Stainless-Steel-Cleaner-Polish\/dp\/B073BKYMCK?hvadid=216559542401&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7384590706398745626&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003006&hvtargid=pla-353753222358&psc=1&mcid=85c269af63263940b5c9963520132bd1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAoeGuBhCBARIsAGfKY7xxWGhZze-kpEOKXc6-DI7K0ToqERUcwdqhhOr4_qCWKhZI2ALM2pQaAqx2EALw_wcB&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=dc9ec2fda2eea3e4febb30cf848d6dcc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)\n\n#### [Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Weiman-Stainless-Steel-Cleaner-Polish\/dp\/B073BKYMCK?hvadid=216559542401&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7384590706398745626&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003006&hvtargid=pla-353753222358&psc=1&mcid=85c269af63263940b5c9963520132bd1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAoeGuBhCBARIsAGfKY7xxWGhZze-kpEOKXc6-DI7K0ToqERUcwdqhhOr4_qCWKhZI2ALM2pQaAqx2EALw_wcB&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=dc9ec2fda2eea3e4febb30cf848d6dcc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)\nAmazon\n\n\\$17.63\n\n[Shop Now](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Weiman-Stainless-Steel-Cleaner-Polish\/dp\/B073BKYMCK?hvadid=216559542401&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7384590706398745626&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003006&hvtargid=pla-353753222358&psc=1&mcid=85c269af63263940b5c9963520132bd1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAoeGuBhCBARIsAGfKY7xxWGhZze-kpEOKXc6-DI7K0ToqERUcwdqhhOr4_qCWKhZI2ALM2pQaAqx2EALw_wcB&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=dc9ec2fda2eea3e4febb30cf848d6dcc&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)\n\n## These Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done\nThey provide a versatile clean for every room in the house.\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/)\n\n[![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%20520'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/closeup-waitress-disinfecting-tables-outdoor-cafe.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/)\n\n### ABOUT THE AUTHOR Share This Post:\n![Thumbnail](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2080%2080'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Thumbnail](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Amy-Gordon.jpg)\n\n#### Amy Gordon\nAmy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com.\n\n[⚖️ How We Choose What to Recommend](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/editorial-standards-product-recommendations\/)\n\n## Latest Stories\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20630'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/carpet-vacuums-thumbnail-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-vacuum-cleaners-for-carpet\/)\n\n[8 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Carpet 2026](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-vacuum-cleaners-for-carpet\/)\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-vacuum-cleaners-for-carpet\/)\n\n[![how to get rid of clutter](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20630'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![how to get rid of clutter](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/AYB-Organize-Site-BKG-1.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/drew-jonathan-scott-how-to-get-rid-of-clutter\/)\n\n[Drew and Jonathan’s Top Tips for Getting Rid of Clutter](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/drew-jonathan-scott-how-to-get-rid-of-clutter\/)\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/drew-jonathan-scott-how-to-get-rid-of-clutter\/)\n\n[![best cleaning products](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%20780'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![best cleaning products](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pink-stuff-staff-favorite-feature.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-cleaning-products-tools\/)\n\n[These Are the Best Cleaning Products Our Editors Can’t Live Without](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-cleaning-products-tools\/)\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-cleaning-products-tools\/)\n\n[![hands cleaning a carpet getting out a coffee stain with spray bottle and rag](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20630'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![hands cleaning a carpet getting out a coffee stain with spray bottle and rag](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/hands-getting-coffee-stain-out-carpet.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/how-to-get-coffee-stain-out-of-rug\/)\n\n[4 Easy Steps to Get Coffee Stains Out of Your Rug](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/how-to-get-coffee-stain-out-of-rug\/)\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/how-to-get-coffee-stain-out-of-rug\/)\n\n### Subscribe to Our Newsletter\nGet design tips, episode recaps, shopping ideas, and the latest news from Drew and Jonathan, straight to your inbox. Plus, opt in to our 7-Day Cleaning Challenge to get exclusive cleaning tips each day over the next week\\!\n\n[![Drew & Jonathan](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/DJ_Logo_Primary_Black.svg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/)\n\n###### Our Shows\n- [Chasing the West](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/property-brothers-news\/drew-jonathan-scott-chasing-the-west-show\/)\n- [Don’t Hate Your House](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/dont-hate-your-house\/)\n- [Backed by the Bros](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/backed-by-the-bros\/)\n- [Property Brothers](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/property-brothers\/)\n- [Celebrity IOU](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/celebrity-iou\/)\n- [Brother vs Brother](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/brother-vs-brother\/)\n- [Forever Home](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tvseries\/property-brothers-forever-home\/)\n- [Casting](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/casting\/)\n\n###### Shop\n- [Shop by Room](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/shop\/)\n- [Shop by Category](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/shop\/)\n- [Where to Buy](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/where-to-buy\/)\n- [Scott Living](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/scott-living\/)\n- [Drew & Jonathan Home](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/drew-jonathan-home\/)\n- [Modular One Sectional](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/drew-and-jonathan-home-modular-one\/)\n- [Ultimate Home Deals Hub](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/ultimate-home-deals\/)\n- [Our Product Recommendation Policies](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/editorial-standards-product-recommendations\/)\n\n###### Inspiration\n- [Best of the Bros](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/best-of-drew-and-jonathan-scott\/)\n- [How To](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/)\n- [Design & Decor](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/design-and-decor\/)\n- [Living](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/living\/)\n- [Drew Scott News](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/property-brothers-news\/drew-scott-news\/)\n- [Jonathan Scott News](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/property-brothers-news\/jonathan-scott-news\/)\n- [Our Latest Videos](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/tag\/video\/)\n\n###### Learn\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/about-us\/)\n- [Scott Living](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/scott-living\/)\n- [Drew & Jonathan Home](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/drew-jonathan-home\/)\n- [Builder Brothers](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/builder-brothers\/)\n- [Property Brothers Home Design Mobile Game](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/download-property-brothers-home-design-mobile-game\/)\n- [Drew & Jonathan YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@drewandjonathan)\n- [Support](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/support\/)\n- [Follow Us](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/follow-us\/)\n\n©2026 Copyright Drew & Jonathan™ All Rights Reserved\n\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Terms & Conditions](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/terms-conditions\/)\n- [Accessibility Statement](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/accessibility-statement\/)\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/sitemap\/)\n- [Site Credits](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/site-credits\/)\n\n![]()\n\n## Love This Item?\nShare it now\\!","attrs_readable_markdown":"![how to clean a fridge](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/shutterstock_318263891-scaled.jpg)\n\nThis site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change.\n\nOne of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you [take to clean](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/ultimate-cleaning-tips-guide\/), the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it.\n\nThe great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush, [all-purpose cleaner](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/), white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean.\n\n## 1\\. First, Empty the Fridge\nTake all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long).\n\n## 2\\. Remove the Shelves and Drawers\nTake out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely.\n\n## 3\\. Don’t Forget the Gaskets\nNow that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.\n\n## 4\\. Fill It Back Up\nSlide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator.\n\n## 5\\. Now, Onto the Exterior\nThink about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel.\n\n## 6\\. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh\nTo maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a [natural air freshener that uses activated charcoal](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B09VZ11WHK?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B09VZ11WHK&pd_rd_w=JkeZC&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=V2GZTY1QZTFCZMGW170R&pd_rd_wg=fMZqi&pd_rd_r=ca7acb3c-ac2a-40e0-8ea6-37e2dd6a7ead&s=hpc&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=a97f6aa51a05146f0df73e48e96890db&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) to keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product.\n\n## These Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done\nThey provide a versatile clean for every room in the house.\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/)\n\n[![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/closeup-waitress-disinfecting-tables-outdoor-cafe.jpg)](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/how-to\/best-all-purpose-cleaners\/)\n\n### ABOUT THE AUTHOR\n![Thumbnail](https:\/\/spcdn.shortpixel.ai\/spio\/ret_img,q_cdnize\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Amy-Gordon.jpg)\n\n#### Amy Gordon\nAmy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com.\n\n[⚖️ How We Choose What to Recommend](https:\/\/www.drewandjonathan.com\/editorial-standards-product-recommendations\/)","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change. One of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you take to clean , the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it. The great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush, all-purpose cleaner , white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean. 1. First, Empty the Fridge Take all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long). 2. Remove the Shelves and Drawers Take out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely. 3. Don’t Forget the Gaskets Now that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. 4. Fill It Back Up Slide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator. 5. Now, Onto the Exterior Think about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel. 6. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh To maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a natural air freshener that uses activated charcoal to keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product. These Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done They provide a versatile clean for every room in the house. Read More ABOUT THE AUTHOR Amy Gordon Amy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com. ⚖️ How We Choose What to Recommend
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Plus, opt in to our 7-Day Cleaning Challenge to get exclusive cleaning tips each day over the next week\! [Home](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/) \> [How To](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/) \> [Cleaning](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/cleaning/) \> How to Clean a Fridge # How to Clean a Fridge Is there anything more satisfying than a freshly-cleaned fridge? By [Amy Gordon](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/author/amy_gordon/) \\| February 23, 2024 ![how to clean a fridge](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/shutterstock_318263891-scaled.jpg) This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change. One of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you [take to clean](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/ultimate-cleaning-tips-guide/), the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it. The great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush, [all-purpose cleaner](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/), white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean. ## 1\. First, Empty the Fridge Take all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long). ## 2\. Remove the Shelves and Drawers Take out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely. ## 3\. Don’t Forget the Gaskets Now that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. ## 4\. Fill It Back Up Slide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator. ## 5\. Now, Onto the Exterior Think about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel. ## 6\. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh To maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a [natural air freshener that uses activated charcoal](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VZ11WHK?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B09VZ11WHK&pd_rd_w=JkeZC&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=V2GZTY1QZTFCZMGW170R&pd_rd_wg=fMZqi&pd_rd_r=ca7acb3c-ac2a-40e0-8ea6-37e2dd6a7ead&s=hpc&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=a97f6aa51a05146f0df73e48e96890db&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) to keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product. 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These Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done They provide a versatile clean for every room in the house. [Read More](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/) [![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20780%20520'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/closeup-waitress-disinfecting-tables-outdoor-cafe.jpg)](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/) ### ABOUT THE AUTHOR Share This Post: ![Thumbnail](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2080%2080'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Thumbnail](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Amy-Gordon.jpg) #### Amy Gordon Amy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com. 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Readable Markdown	![how to clean a fridge](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/shutterstock_318263891-scaled.jpg) This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change. One of the most daunting kitchen tasks has to be the dreaded fridge clean-out. Not only does this job require you to get into lots of nooks and crannies to remove crumbs, mold, and bacteria, but you are also under a bit of a time crunch. After all, the longer you [take to clean](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/ultimate-cleaning-tips-guide/), the warmer your perishables will get. Whether you’ve been putting off this task for way too long or just need a refresher on how to clean a fridge, we’re here to walk you through it. The great news? Cleaning your refrigerator doesn’t require any specialty products or elaborate tools. In fact, all you’ll need is a sponge, some dishtowels, a toothbrush, [all-purpose cleaner](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/), white vinegar or a bleach-based cleanser, and dish soap. (A quick note: as a substitute for warm, soapy water, you can instead mix one part baking soda with seven parts warm water.) Our easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions will keep your fridge smelling good and looking clean. ## 1\. First, Empty the Fridge Take all of your items out of the fridge and place them on the counter or tabletop until the cleaning is finished. (If you have a cooler you can use to temporarily store everything, that’s even better, but it’s certainly not necessary.) As you’re taking items out, check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime into the trash or compost, and clean out any containers that can be recycled before throwing them in the recycling bin. This is also a great time to assess the state of your leftovers (and reclaim all the food storage containers they’ve been hogging for way too long). ## 2\. Remove the Shelves and Drawers Take out the drawers, shelves, racks, and any other removable parts, and scrub them in the sink using warm soapy water. Now that the fridge is completely empty, you can use warm, soapy water and a towel or sponge to wash the walls, floor, and other interior fridge surfaces. Don’t forget the butter compartment, egg cups, and other specialty areas. (If a piece doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it. Instead, consult your owner’s manual or leave it where it is.) Use a wet towel to wash away the soap, and dry everything with a fresh towel or dishcloth, or let them air-dry completely. ## 3\. Don’t Forget the Gaskets Now that the interior of your fridge is clean, it’s time to focus on the gaskets—aka the rubber seals that ensure everything stays cold and keeps unwanted pests from getting inside. The tight crevices in your gaskets are notorious for breeding mold, so you’ll want to give this step of the process a little extra attention. Grab an old toothbrush, take a first pass with soapy water, and follow up by completing the same process with a bleach-based cleaner or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. ## 4\. Fill It Back Up Slide all of the newly washed pieces that you removed back into place so that you can put your food back where it belongs. As you replace your jars, bottles, bags, and other containers into the fridge, give each item a quick once-over with a towel and soapy water, and make sure all the items are dry when you put them inside. Then, stand back and take in the joy of a sparkling-clean, fresh-smelling refrigerator. ## 5\. Now, Onto the Exterior Think about how many times the dirty hands in your household touch the handles and exterior surfaces of your fridge. In a word: yuck. But don’t worry—combatting germs and bacteria on the outside is easy. Once every day or two, just spray it down with an all-purpose or anti-bacterial cleaner, and dry with a towel. If you have a stainless steel fridge, make sure you’re using a cleaner that’s non-abrasive or specifically made for stainless steel. ## 6\. How to Keep Your Fridge Fresh To maintain a fantastic-smelling fridge all the time, the age-old trick of keeping an open container of baking soda inside is a great way to go. Just make sure to change it out every three months or so. Alternatively, you can buy a [natural air freshener that uses activated charcoal](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VZ11WHK?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B09VZ11WHK&pd_rd_w=JkeZC&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=V2GZTY1QZTFCZMGW170R&pd_rd_wg=fMZqi&pd_rd_r=ca7acb3c-ac2a-40e0-8ea6-37e2dd6a7ead&s=hpc&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw&linkCode=ll1&tag=sbgdatabase-20&linkId=a97f6aa51a05146f0df73e48e96890db&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) to keep odors at bay. Simply stick it or place it inside of the refrigerator, and follow the directions on the package to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product. ## These Top-Rated All-Purpose Cleaners Get the Job Done They provide a versatile clean for every room in the house. [Read More](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/) [![Person cleaning a wooden table with a green cloth and blue spray cleaner while wearing blue gloves](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/closeup-waitress-disinfecting-tables-outdoor-cafe.jpg)](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/how-to/best-all-purpose-cleaners/) ### ABOUT THE AUTHOR ![Thumbnail](https://spcdn.shortpixel.ai/spio/ret_img,q_cdnize/www.drewandjonathan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Amy-Gordon.jpg) #### Amy Gordon Amy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com. [⚖️ How We Choose What to Recommend](https://www.drewandjonathan.com/editorial-standards-product-recommendations/)
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