🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:
Response:
Calculated Shard: 30 (from laksa142)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:
Response:

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:
Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:
Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

đź“„
INDEXABLE
âś…
CRAWLED
1 day ago
🤖
ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

FilterStatusConditionDetails
HTTP statusPASSdownload_http_code = 200HTTP 200
Age cutoffPASSdownload_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH0 months ago
History dropPASSisNull(history_drop_reason)No drop reason
Spam/banPASSfh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0ml_spam_score=0
CanonicalPASSmeta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsedNot set

Page Details

PropertyValue
URLhttps://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666
Last Crawled2026-04-12 02:02:26 (1 day ago)
First Indexed2025-12-28 21:52:03 (3 months ago)
HTTP Status Code200
Meta TitleHow To Clean Your Fridge With Vinegar And Get Rid Of Odors
Meta DescriptionVinegar is the secret to a clean, fresh-smelling fridge. Here's how to clean your refrigerator regularly and get rid of stains and odors.
Meta Canonicalnull
Boilerpipe Text
Wipe the inside of your refrigerator every week to keep it fresh. By Karen Brewer Grossman Karen is a writer and editor with more than 25 years of print and digital media experience working in newspapers, educational publishing, marketing, nonprofits, and magazines. Published on December 28, 2025 Credit: Getty Images You may not notice as you grab the milk for your cereal or fresh fruit from the produce bins, but your refrigerator can get dirty fast thanks to leaky food containers, old leftovers hiding in the back corners, and produce that wasn’t used fast enough. A lot goes in and out of its drawers and shelves in a day. Food crumbs, spills, and rotting food can make your fridge grimy and maybe even smelly. Those messes can build up over time if you don’t clean your fridge regularly. There’s an easy solution that’s probably sitting right in your kitchen already. The secret to getting your refrigerator’s interior clean and smelling fresh again is white vinegar . Use this affordable, natural option to cut through grease and grime and neutralize odors. How Often To Clean A Refrigerator Your fridge should be cleaned every week to prevent bacteria buildup that can make its way into your food. Wipe down surfaces and clean up any spills and crumbs. Aim for a more thorough cleaning each month by removing items and cleaning out drawers and shelves and wiping down seals. Plan to deep-clean your refrigerator every three or four months by removing drawers and shelves and washing them in warm, soapy water and cleaning the coils on the back of the fridge. Considerations Before Getting Started For deeper cleanings, unplugging the refrigerator can prevent electric shock or short circuits if moisture gets into the electrical components while cleaning. It also saves energy when cleaning with the door open. If you are wiping down a few shelves at a time, turning the temperature down may be enough. Have a cooler with ice packs ready for perishables before you deep-clean your refrigerator’s interior, and grab a trash bag for throwing out expired foods. Since vinegar is acidic, don’t let it come in contact with any stainless steel components too long because it can damage the surface. Using a special cleaner formulated for stainless steel for the exterior is best. Also, avoid cleaning rubber seals with vinegar since it can cause them to deteriorate over time. What You Need Cooler Ice packs Clean microfiber cloths Water White vinegar Spray bottle Dishwashing soap Non-abrasive sponge Old toothbrush How To Clean A Refrigerator With Vinegar Remove items from the shelves or drawers in your refrigerator, and store them in a cooler with ice packs while you clean. Dampen a microfiber cloth with water and wipe any crumbs from the shelves. Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and liberally spray the emptied interior shelves, drawers, bins, and walls. Let it sit for a few minutes.  If any drawers and bins have stains or spills, remove them and wash them in warm, soapy water.  Use an old toothbrush to get into corners and hard-to-reach areas. Dry the shelves and bins washed with soapy water, and return them to the refrigerator. Wipe the remaining interior with a wet, non-abrasive sponge to remove any residue, then dry with a clean cloth. Tips For Keeping Your Refrigerator Clean Longer Wipe up spills and leaks as soon as possible so they don’t have time to harden, which will make them harder to remove. Use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent spills in case they are knocked over. Clean out your fridge every week to remove old or expired food that can smell or leak. Use the “first in, first out” method to rotate older items in the fridge to the front so they can be used before their expiration date and newer items can be put in the back and used as needed. Place leaky items like defrosting meat on plates, bowls, or paper towels to catch drips. Removing Stains From Your Refrigerator For stains and buildup that don’t wipe away easily, combine a mixture of equal parts vinegar and baking soda to create a paste. Spread the paste over stains and let it sit for five to 10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp sponge. Was this page helpful? Tell us why!
Markdown
​ [Skip to content](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#main) [Southern Living](https://www.southernliving.com/) - Please fill out this field. - Magazine - [Subscribe](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Manage Your Subscription](https://w1.buysub.com/pubs/MR/SLV/Login_No_API.jsp?cds_page_id=227169&cds_mag_code=SLV&id=1661290621578&lsid=22351636502027051&vid=2) - [Give a Gift Subscription](https://www.magazines.com/southern-living-magazine.html?gift=true&utm_source=southernliving.com&utm_medium=owned&utm_campaign=i208slr5w2926) - [Get Help](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-contact-us) - [Newsletters](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Sweepstakes](https://www.southernliving.com/sweepstakes) - [Subscribe](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [My Saves](https://www.myrecipes.com/) Please fill out this field. - [Food](https://www.southernliving.com/food) Food - [Recipes](https://www.southernliving.com/recipes) - [Kitchen Assistant](https://www.southernliving.com/food/kitchen-assistant) - [Quick & Easy Dinners](https://www.southernliving.com/food/whats-for-supper) - [Casseroles](https://www.southernliving.com/food/dish/casserole) - [Desserts](https://www.southernliving.com/food/desserts) - [Side Dishes](https://www.southernliving.com/food/side-dishes) - [Appetizers](https://www.southernliving.com/food/appetizers) - [Breakfast](https://www.southernliving.com/food/breakfast) - [Party Food & Drink](https://www.southernliving.com/food/entertaining) - [Meat](https://www.southernliving.com/food/meat) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/food) - [Home](https://www.southernliving.com/home) Home - [Idea Houses](https://www.southernliving.com/home/idea-houses) - [Home Decor Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/home/decor) - [Before & Afters](https://www.southernliving.com/home/before-after) - [Curb Appeal](https://www.southernliving.com/home/curb-appeal) - [Kitchen Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/kitchen) - [Bathroom Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/bathroom) - [Bedroom Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/bedroom) - [Paint & Color Palettes](https://www.southernliving.com/home/colors) - [Inspired Communities](https://www.southernliving.com/licensing-partners-7510359) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Garden](https://www.southernliving.com/garden) Garden - [Gardening & Landscaping Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/gardening-landscaping-6511129) - [Outdoor Plants](https://www.southernliving.com/garden/plants) - [Gardening Flowers](https://www.southernliving.com/garden/flowers) - [Plant Problems](https://www.southernliving.com/plant-problems-7489148) - [Caring For Your Garden](https://www.southernliving.com/garden-care-7489155) - [Fruit, Vegetable, & Herb Gardens](https://www.southernliving.com/fruits-vegetables-herbs-6511594) - [Houseplants](https://www.southernliving.com/houseplants-6511453) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/garden) - [Travel](https://www.southernliving.com/travel) Travel - [South's Best](https://www.southernliving.com/souths-best) - [Trip Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/trip-ideas-11771659) - [Tips and Planning](https://www.southernliving.com/travel-tips-and-planning-11771758) - [Coastal Living](https://www.southernliving.com/travel/coastal-living) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/travel) - [Holidays](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions) Holidays - [Thanksgiving](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/thanksgiving) - [Christmas](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/christmas) - [Hanukkah](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/hanukkah) - [Easter](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/easter) - [4th of July](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/4th-of-july) - [Mother's Day](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/mothers-day) - [New Year's](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/new-years) - [Mardi Gras](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/mardi-gras) - [Gifts](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/gifts) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions) - [Culture](https://www.southernliving.com/culture) Culture - [Quotes & Sayings](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sayings) - [Etiquette & Manners](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/etiquette) - [History & Traditions](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/history-and-traditions) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/culture) - [Style](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty) Style - [Hair](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles) - [Short Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/short) - [Medium Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/medium) - [Long Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/long) - [Beauty](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/beauty-makeup) - [Nails](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/nails) - [Skincare](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/skin) - [Fashion](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/southern-fashion) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty) - [News](https://www.southernliving.com/news) News - [Local News](https://www.southernliving.com/news/local-news) - [Celebrities](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/celebrities) - [Food News](https://www.southernliving.com/food-news-11772142) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/news) - [Shopping](https://www.southernliving.com/shopping) - [Podcasts](https://www.southernliving.com/podcasts-7373302) Podcasts - [Ask Grumpy Podcast](https://www.southernliving.com/ask-grumpy-7373361) - [Biscuits & Jam Podcast](https://www.southernliving.com/biscuits-and-jam-podcast) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/podcasts-7373302) - [About Us](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349) - [Subscribe](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Log In to Southern Living Account](https://www.southernliving.com/authentication/login?regSource=25019&relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - Southern Living Account Southern Living Account - [Log Out](https://www.southernliving.com/authentication/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2Fhow-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Settings](https://www.southernliving.com/account/settings) - Magazine Magazine - [Subscribe](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Manage Your Subscription](https://w1.buysub.com/pubs/MR/SLV/Login_No_API.jsp?cds_page_id=227169&cds_mag_code=SLV&id=1661290621578&lsid=22351636502027051&vid=2) - [Give a Gift Subscription](https://www.magazines.com/southern-living-magazine.html?gift=true&utm_source=southernliving.com&utm_medium=owned&utm_campaign=i208slr5w2926) - [Get Help](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-contact-us) - [Newsletters](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) - [Sweepstakes](https://www.southernliving.com/sweepstakes) Follow Us - [Food](https://www.southernliving.com/food) - [Recipes](https://www.southernliving.com/recipes) - [Kitchen Assistant](https://www.southernliving.com/food/kitchen-assistant) - [Quick & Easy Dinners](https://www.southernliving.com/food/whats-for-supper) - [Casseroles](https://www.southernliving.com/food/dish/casserole) - [Desserts](https://www.southernliving.com/food/desserts) - [Side Dishes](https://www.southernliving.com/food/side-dishes) - [Appetizers](https://www.southernliving.com/food/appetizers) - [Breakfast](https://www.southernliving.com/food/breakfast) - [Party Food & Drink](https://www.southernliving.com/food/entertaining) - [Meat](https://www.southernliving.com/food/meat) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/food) - [Home](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Idea Houses](https://www.southernliving.com/home/idea-houses) - [Home Decor Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/home/decor) - [Before & Afters](https://www.southernliving.com/home/before-after) - [Curb Appeal](https://www.southernliving.com/home/curb-appeal) - [Kitchen Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/kitchen) - [Bathroom Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/bathroom) - [Bedroom Design](https://www.southernliving.com/home/bedroom) - [Paint & Color Palettes](https://www.southernliving.com/home/colors) - [Inspired Communities](https://www.southernliving.com/licensing-partners-7510359) - [House Plans & Builders](https://www.southernliving.com/southernliving-homes-programs-7970236) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Garden](https://www.southernliving.com/garden) - [Gardening & Landscaping Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/gardening-landscaping-6511129) - [Outdoor Plants](https://www.southernliving.com/garden/plants) - [Flowers](https://www.southernliving.com/garden/flowers) - [Plant Problems](https://www.southernliving.com/plant-problems-7489148) - [Caring For Your Garden](https://www.southernliving.com/garden-care-7489155) - [Fruit, Vegetable, & Herb Gardens](https://www.southernliving.com/fruits-vegetables-herbs-6511594) - [Houseplants](https://www.southernliving.com/houseplants-6511453) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/garden) - [Travel](https://www.southernliving.com/travel) - [South's Best](https://www.southernliving.com/souths-best) - [Trip Ideas](https://www.southernliving.com/trip-ideas-11771659) - [Tips and Planning](https://www.southernliving.com/travel-tips-and-planning-11771758) - [Coastal Living](https://www.southernliving.com/travel/coastal-living) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/travel) - [Holidays](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions) - [Valentine's Day](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/valentines-day) - [Mardi Gras](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/mardi-gras) - [Easter](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/easter) - [Mother's Day](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/mothers-day) - [4th of July](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/4th-of-july) - [Thanksgiving](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/thanksgiving) - [Christmas](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/christmas) - [New Year's](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/new-years) - [Gifts](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/gifts) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions) - [Culture](https://www.southernliving.com/culture) - [Quotes & Sayings](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/sayings) - [Etiquette & Manners](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/etiquette) - [History & Traditions](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/history-and-traditions) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/culture) - [Style](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty) - [Hair](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles) - [Short Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/short) - [Medium Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/medium) - [Long Hairstyles](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/long) - [Beauty](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/beauty-makeup) - [Nails](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/nails) - [Skincare](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/skin) - [Fashion](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/southern-fashion) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty) - [News](https://www.southernliving.com/news) - [Local News](https://www.southernliving.com/news/local-news) - [Celebrities](https://www.southernliving.com/culture/celebrities) - [Food News](https://www.southernliving.com/food-news-11772142) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/news) - [Shopping](https://www.southernliving.com/shopping) - [The Southern Living Home Collection at Dillard's](https://www.southernliving.com/southern-living-at-dillards-7495692) - [The Southern Living Plant Collection](https://www.southernliving.com/the-southern-living-plant-collection-8708358) - [Podcasts](https://www.southernliving.com/podcasts-7373302) - [Ask Grumpy Podcast](https://www.southernliving.com/ask-grumpy-7373361) - [Biscuits & Jam Podcast](https://www.southernliving.com/biscuits-and-jam-podcast) - [View All](https://www.southernliving.com/podcasts-7373302) [About Us](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349) [Subscribe](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) [Keep The Recipes You Love. Never Lose Them Again with MyRecipes.](https://www.myrecipes.com/authentication/login?regSource=w4snpy&isMyrecipes=true&utm_source=southernliving&utm_medium=sitewidebanner) # How To Clean Your Fridge With Vinegar So It Looks—And Smells—Like New Wipe the inside of your refrigerator every week to keep it fresh. By [Karen Brewer Grossman](https://www.southernliving.com/karen-brewer-grossman-11756399) ![Karen Brewer Grossman]() ![Karen Brewer Grossman](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/4F1G68pxeSiImrEuN-C5edRrtvU=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Bs4nNPDMng5FnfIhA4rX7Y4cXOdVdSHEgLIbleayf4A-44e9043b1c35438fb646cc760e210cc0.jpeg) [Karen Brewer Grossman](https://www.southernliving.com/karen-brewer-grossman-11756399) Karen is a writer and editor with more than 25 years of print and digital media experience working in newspapers, educational publishing, marketing, nonprofits, and magazines. [Southern Living's editorial guidelines](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-editorial-guidelines) Published on December 28, 2025 In This Article View All In This Article - [How Often To Clean](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-how-often-to-clean-a-refrigerator) - [Before Getting Started](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-considerations-before-getting-started) - [What You Need](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-what-you-need) - [Clean With Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-how-to-clean-a-refrigerator-with-vinegar) - [Keep It Clean Longer](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-tips-for-keeping-your-refrigerator-clean-longer) - [Removing Stains](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666#toc-removing-stains-from-your-refrigerator) Close ![Cropped Hand Of Woman Cleaning Inside The Fridge With Cleaning Cloths](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/9NVe96nDPxi2CyH_ZzWrPUsqQVA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1441893306-a4ac8e847a89479e9d505533615bb7e6.jpg) ![Cropped Hand Of Woman Cleaning Inside The Fridge With Cleaning Cloths](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/9NVe96nDPxi2CyH_ZzWrPUsqQVA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1441893306-a4ac8e847a89479e9d505533615bb7e6.jpg) Credit: Getty Images You may not notice as you grab the milk for your cereal or fresh fruit from the produce bins, but your refrigerator can get dirty fast thanks to leaky food containers, old leftovers hiding in the back corners, and produce that wasn’t used fast enough. A lot goes in and out of its drawers and shelves in a day. Food crumbs, spills, and rotting food can make your fridge grimy and maybe even smelly. Those messes can build up over time if you don’t [clean your fridge](https://www.southernliving.com/habits-of-people-who-always-have-a-clean-fridge-8750169) regularly. There’s an easy solution that’s probably sitting right in your kitchen already. The secret to getting your refrigerator’s interior clean and smelling fresh again is [white vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/is-cleaning-vinegar-the-same-as-white-vinegar-8754930). Use this affordable, natural option to cut through grease and grime and neutralize odors. ## How Often To Clean A Refrigerator Your fridge should be cleaned every week to prevent bacteria buildup that can make its way into your food. Wipe down surfaces and clean up any spills and crumbs. Aim for a more thorough cleaning each month by removing items and cleaning out drawers and shelves and wiping down seals. Plan to [deep-clean your refrigerator](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-deep-clean-your-refrigerator-11829936) every three or four months by removing drawers and shelves and washing them in warm, soapy water and cleaning the coils on the back of the fridge. ## Considerations Before Getting Started For deeper cleanings, unplugging the refrigerator can prevent electric shock or short circuits if moisture gets into the electrical components while cleaning. It also saves energy when cleaning with the door open. If you are wiping down a few shelves at a time, turning the temperature down may be enough. Have a [cooler with ice packs](https://www.southernliving.com/southern-cooler-essential-11756694) ready for perishables before you deep-clean your refrigerator’s interior, and grab a trash bag for throwing out expired foods. Since vinegar is acidic, don’t let it come in contact with any stainless steel components too long because it can damage the surface. Using a special cleaner formulated for stainless steel for the exterior is best. Also, avoid cleaning rubber seals with vinegar since it can cause them to deteriorate over time. ## What You Need - Cooler - Ice packs - Clean microfiber cloths - Water - White vinegar - Spray bottle - Dishwashing soap - Non-abrasive sponge - Old toothbrush ## How To Clean A Refrigerator With Vinegar 1. Remove items from the shelves or drawers in your refrigerator, and store them in a cooler with ice packs while you clean. 2. Dampen a [microfiber cloth](https://www.southernliving.com/uses-for-microfiber-cloths-11835391) with water and wipe any crumbs from the shelves. 3. Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and liberally spray the emptied interior shelves, drawers, bins, and walls. Let it sit for a few minutes. 4. If any drawers and bins have stains or spills, remove them and wash them in warm, soapy water. 5. Use an old toothbrush to get into corners and hard-to-reach areas. 6. Dry the shelves and bins washed with soapy water, and return them to the refrigerator. 7. Wipe the remaining interior with a wet, non-abrasive sponge to remove any residue, then dry with a clean cloth. ## Tips For Keeping Your Refrigerator Clean Longer - Wipe up spills and leaks as soon as possible so they don’t have time to harden, which will make them harder to remove. - Use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent spills in case they are knocked over. - Clean out your fridge every week to remove old or expired food that can smell or leak. - Use the “first in, first out” method to rotate older items in the fridge to the front so they can be used before their [expiration date](https://www.southernliving.com/sell-by-vs-use-by-vs-best-by-7372738) and newer items can be put in the back and used as needed. - Place leaky items like defrosting meat on plates, bowls, or paper towels to catch drips. ## Removing Stains From Your Refrigerator For stains and buildup that don’t wipe away easily, combine a mixture of equal parts vinegar and [baking soda](https://www.southernliving.com/things-to-clean-with-baking-soda-7098169) to create a paste. Spread the paste over stains and let it sit for five to 10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp sponge. Explore more: - [Home](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Cleaning and Housekeeping](https://www.southernliving.com/home/cleaning-and-housekeeping) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! Other ## Related Articles [![opened refrigerator]() ![opened refrigerator](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/0N5jc_FbkkqqlZ83C6qNYni98Ds=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-90607204-0e47697f12154cb289785941ac04ca8d.jpg) Why Your Fridge Is So Smelly And How To Fix It Fast](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-get-rid-of-smell-in-fridge-8761258) [![Cleaning fridge]() ![Cleaning fridge](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/1jzqgET2iOfpFtE__VypPeCYXuI=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1346596223-a2b14d0812fb4945ae1570a1f3cf7371.jpg) How To Clean Your Fridge With Baking Soda And Get Rid Of Odors For Good](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-your-fridge-with-baking-soda-11943671) [![Cleaning kitchen with natural cleaning products]() ![Cleaning kitchen with natural cleaning products](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/QC-aZ97dyXmYRHZJyYX53HHvLHM=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1214601421-1d77935898db44e1ad9fda9723b4f294.jpg) 10 Old-School Cleaning Tricks That Southerners Stand By](https://www.southernliving.com/old-school-cleaning-tricks-11788058) [![Vinegar in glass bottle with cleaning cloths]() ![Vinegar in glass bottle with cleaning cloths](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/7j9cWWwjxttdln27jXMFytt_-Ko=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1278610215-75c743da9fcc468693415e68da8ac3bd.jpg) 12 Household Items You Didn’t Know Vinegar Could Clean](https://www.southernliving.com/things-cleaning-with-vinegar-11910491) [![Cleaning Glass Shower]() ![Cleaning Glass Shower](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5y3faPaPGQlxU9dSqskjOD3QGFA=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1429696441-724492d8335f4bbbb0229dc3b0180630.jpg) How To Clean Your Shower With Vinegar From Top To Bottom](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-shower-with-vinegar-11874348) [![clean freezer]() ![clean freezer](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/3lYXZkEfrsfOYVyWdg05wKo3TYE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-2209711096-387f9c0a4e094936ad9a17f4ed4d720d.jpg) How To Clean Your Freezer In 5 Easy Steps](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-freezer-11855449) [![White vinegar in a glass bottle. White background. Organic cleaner.]() ![White vinegar in a glass bottle. White background. Organic cleaner.](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/c7ZVUlfnQad9C1CpPHlYh0AaoTo=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-468621537-3f0074b499c9416ca1d53dd01b120515.jpg) Is Cleaning Vinegar The Same As White Vinegar? Here’s What An Expert Says](https://www.southernliving.com/cleaning-vinegar-vs-white-vinegar-11896920) [![bottle of apple cider vinegar against yellow background]() ![bottle of apple cider vinegar against yellow background](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/k-2dMk0XNZnKu6_xbk1jWuq2YWA=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-2191285736-d049c920d6094bb79b2ef8fba2029ece.jpg) 6 Things You Should Be Cleaning With Apple Cider Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/apple-cider-vinegar-cleaning-11943100) [![The chrome faucet is covered with lime scale]() ![The chrome faucet is covered with lime scale](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/lvr5akHhC5hAxFQIu4cWNr54F74=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1788200973-f2bf684e840f423b90c3a71eeb49cb25.jpg) How To Clean A Faucet Head With Vinegar And Remove Buildup Fast](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-faucet-head-with-vinegar-11852078) [![cleaning microwave]() ![cleaning microwave](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/J8TnCPV4zGdQLd85wn4ZWc0NS6A=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-182222167-2000-5567fd925b3045ca8541c9f67fc89e61.jpg) How To Clean Your Microwave With Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/home/cleaning-and-housekeeping/clean-microwave-with-vinegar) [![A showerhead spraying water in a tiled shower area]() ![A showerhead spraying water in a tiled shower area](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/8nFHe3Sc0kk7LILD9fvK6wrfABs=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1358890541-9eb4972e030143b18cd21f1a4cc0dd17.jpg) How To Clean A Showerhead With Vinegar To Restore Water Pressure And Renew Its Shine](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-showerhead-with-vinegar-11871824) [![Apple Cider Vinegar]() ![Apple Cider Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/yl8cPfMCcgWra_xtk_NlQ87-yDE=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-161707173-73d5a870f6c84f2fa7d1b9df3c9ef294.jpg) 12 Things You Should Never Clean With Apple Cider Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/things-you-should-never-clean-with-apple-cider-vinegar-11814677) [![Cleaning window with microfiber cloth]() ![Cleaning window with microfiber cloth](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/n7szS1krv1PRDxElOEPolIHUM9k=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1124694710-79e82c1e2a8b43bbb47c27b8f62104e5.jpg) How To Clean Windows With Vinegar Without Leaving Streaks](https://www.southernliving.com/clean-windows-with-vinegar-11900082) [![removing stain from carpet]() ![removing stain from carpet](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/tIAwbkDXL5YX1pt5ZyQuZi_sloI=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1256707464-ca22c45abc804b5cbd52d76ddd2bcd2d.jpg) How To Clean Carpet With Vinegar—And Actually Get Rid Of Stains](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-carpets-with-vinegar-11867414) [![Cropped photo of hand in rubber glove wiping inside of oven with sponge]() ![Cropped photo of hand in rubber glove wiping inside of oven with sponge](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/kpVMP2yUUGC1CapJfjO2T6e8xZo=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1356805021-2ec26e892ffa41ca97c60d04c1c4b2a1.jpg) How To Clean Your Oven With Vinegar To Remove Greasy Buildup](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-your-oven-with-vinegar-11865770) [![Cropped hand cleaning Toilet In bathroom]() ![Cropped hand cleaning Toilet In bathroom](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Yi0vQBX57KvjZ5TLGiaF2Ld7rls=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1369692643-84aaf36128a34b288a24e94050b7a234.jpg) How To Clean Your Toilet Bowl With Vinegar To Get Rid Of Stubborn Stains](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-your-toilet-bowl-with-vinegar-11905275) [Southern Living](https://www.southernliving.com/) [Newsletters](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666) Follow us - [Food](https://www.southernliving.com/food) - [Home](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Garden](https://www.southernliving.com/garden) - [Travel](https://www.southernliving.com/travel) - [Holidays](https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions) - [Culture](https://www.southernliving.com/culture) - [Style](https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty) - [News](https://www.southernliving.com/news) - [Shopping](https://www.southernliving.com/shopping) - [Podcasts](https://www.southernliving.com/podcasts-7373302) - [About Us](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349) - [Subscribe](https://www.magazines.com/southern-living-magazine.html) - [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-editorial-guidelines) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Contact Us](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-contact-us) Southern Living is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family. Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up
Readable Markdown
Wipe the inside of your refrigerator every week to keep it fresh. By [Karen Brewer Grossman](https://www.southernliving.com/karen-brewer-grossman-11756399) ![Karen Brewer Grossman](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/4F1G68pxeSiImrEuN-C5edRrtvU=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Bs4nNPDMng5FnfIhA4rX7Y4cXOdVdSHEgLIbleayf4A-44e9043b1c35438fb646cc760e210cc0.jpeg) Karen is a writer and editor with more than 25 years of print and digital media experience working in newspapers, educational publishing, marketing, nonprofits, and magazines. Published on December 28, 2025 Credit: Getty Images You may not notice as you grab the milk for your cereal or fresh fruit from the produce bins, but your refrigerator can get dirty fast thanks to leaky food containers, old leftovers hiding in the back corners, and produce that wasn’t used fast enough. A lot goes in and out of its drawers and shelves in a day. Food crumbs, spills, and rotting food can make your fridge grimy and maybe even smelly. Those messes can build up over time if you don’t [clean your fridge](https://www.southernliving.com/habits-of-people-who-always-have-a-clean-fridge-8750169) regularly. There’s an easy solution that’s probably sitting right in your kitchen already. The secret to getting your refrigerator’s interior clean and smelling fresh again is [white vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/is-cleaning-vinegar-the-same-as-white-vinegar-8754930). Use this affordable, natural option to cut through grease and grime and neutralize odors. ## How Often To Clean A Refrigerator Your fridge should be cleaned every week to prevent bacteria buildup that can make its way into your food. Wipe down surfaces and clean up any spills and crumbs. Aim for a more thorough cleaning each month by removing items and cleaning out drawers and shelves and wiping down seals. Plan to [deep-clean your refrigerator](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-deep-clean-your-refrigerator-11829936) every three or four months by removing drawers and shelves and washing them in warm, soapy water and cleaning the coils on the back of the fridge. ## Considerations Before Getting Started For deeper cleanings, unplugging the refrigerator can prevent electric shock or short circuits if moisture gets into the electrical components while cleaning. It also saves energy when cleaning with the door open. If you are wiping down a few shelves at a time, turning the temperature down may be enough. Have a [cooler with ice packs](https://www.southernliving.com/southern-cooler-essential-11756694) ready for perishables before you deep-clean your refrigerator’s interior, and grab a trash bag for throwing out expired foods. Since vinegar is acidic, don’t let it come in contact with any stainless steel components too long because it can damage the surface. Using a special cleaner formulated for stainless steel for the exterior is best. Also, avoid cleaning rubber seals with vinegar since it can cause them to deteriorate over time. ## What You Need - Cooler - Ice packs - Clean microfiber cloths - Water - White vinegar - Spray bottle - Dishwashing soap - Non-abrasive sponge - Old toothbrush ## How To Clean A Refrigerator With Vinegar 1. Remove items from the shelves or drawers in your refrigerator, and store them in a cooler with ice packs while you clean. 2. Dampen a [microfiber cloth](https://www.southernliving.com/uses-for-microfiber-cloths-11835391) with water and wipe any crumbs from the shelves. 3. Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and liberally spray the emptied interior shelves, drawers, bins, and walls. Let it sit for a few minutes. 4. If any drawers and bins have stains or spills, remove them and wash them in warm, soapy water. 5. Use an old toothbrush to get into corners and hard-to-reach areas. 6. Dry the shelves and bins washed with soapy water, and return them to the refrigerator. 7. Wipe the remaining interior with a wet, non-abrasive sponge to remove any residue, then dry with a clean cloth. ## Tips For Keeping Your Refrigerator Clean Longer - Wipe up spills and leaks as soon as possible so they don’t have time to harden, which will make them harder to remove. - Use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent spills in case they are knocked over. - Clean out your fridge every week to remove old or expired food that can smell or leak. - Use the “first in, first out” method to rotate older items in the fridge to the front so they can be used before their [expiration date](https://www.southernliving.com/sell-by-vs-use-by-vs-best-by-7372738) and newer items can be put in the back and used as needed. - Place leaky items like defrosting meat on plates, bowls, or paper towels to catch drips. ## Removing Stains From Your Refrigerator For stains and buildup that don’t wipe away easily, combine a mixture of equal parts vinegar and [baking soda](https://www.southernliving.com/things-to-clean-with-baking-soda-7098169) to create a paste. Spread the paste over stains and let it sit for five to 10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp sponge. Was this page helpful? Tell us why\!
Shard30 (laksa)
Root Hash3239763844413174230
Unparsed URLcom,southernliving!www,/how-to-clean-fridge-with-vinegar-11873666 s443