A clean fridge is essential for maintaining a hygienic and organized kitchen. However, cleaning it regularly is often overlooked, leading to the accumulation of harmful bacteria and unpleasant odors. In this blog, we will provide detailed tips to clean your fridge effectively while focusing on why it is essential. For those in Manhattan looking for professional help, consider hiring a trusted home cleaning service in Manhattan to ensure every corner of your home, including your fridge, is spotless.
Why Is Cleaning Your Fridge So Important?
Without regular cleaning, your fridge can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Studies by Which.co.uk found that 7 in 10 domestic fridges contained bacteria like Aeromonas, Enterobactera clocae, and Klebsiella oxytoca, which are known to cause respiratory and urinary infections. For individuals with weakened immune systems, this can be particularly dangerous.
How Often Should You Clean Your Fridge?
While many people mark November 15th as Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day, it’s important not to limit this task to once a year. Ideally, you should perform a deep clean monthly. Incorporating fridge cleaning into your regular home cleaning routine can help maintain hygiene and prevent bacterial growth.
What Are the Dirtiest Areas of the Fridge?
The dirtiest parts of a fridge might surprise you. Studies by the National Science Foundation (NSF) found the vegetable drawer harbors salmonella, listeria, yeast, and mold. To reduce contamination, store ready-to-eat vegetables separately from unwashed ones.
Additionally, the meat compartment was found to contain E. coli and salmonella. To minimize risks, always clean these sections thoroughly and store raw meat securely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Fridge
- Plan Ahead
Choose a time when your fridge is low on supplies. This makes cleaning more manageable as you can store the remaining contents in a cooler. - Empty the Fridge
Remove all food items and discard anything past its expiration date. - Wash Shelves and Drawers
Take out all removable parts, such as shelves and drawers, and wash them in warm, soapy water. Let them air-dry or dry them with a clean towel. - Clean the Interior
Spray a solution of warm water and mild dish soap onto the fridge’s interior walls, doors, and back. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe it clean. - Focus on Seals and Handles
Don’t forget the rubber seals around the fridge door and the handles. These areas are hotspots for dirt and grime. - Reassemble and Restock
Once everything is dry, reassemble the shelves and drawers. Organize food items strategically to promote airflow and prevent overcrowding.
Top Tips for Keeping Your Fridge Clean
To maintain a clean fridge between deep cleans, follow these tips:
- Wipe Spills Immediately
Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean up spills as soon as they occur. - Check Expiry Dates Weekly
Incorporate this into your grocery shopping routine. Discard expired items promptly to free up space and prevent contamination. - Store Meat Properly
Keep raw meat on the bottom shelf or in a dedicated compartment to avoid drips that could contaminate other foods. - Separate Raw and Cooked Food
Always store raw foods away from cooked items to prevent cross-contamination. - Cool Food Before Storing
Let leftovers cool completely before placing them in the fridge to avoid raising the internal temperature. - Maintain the Ideal Temperature
Set your fridge temperature between 3-5°C to keep food safe and fresh. - Clean Containers Before Restocking
Wipe down sticky jars and containers to keep shelves clean. - Avoid Overfilling
Leave space for air circulation to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the fridge. - Label Leftovers
Label containers with the cooking date and use-by date to keep track of food freshness. - Utilize the Fridge Door Efficiently
Store less temperature-sensitive items like condiments in the fridge door, as it’s the warmest part of the appliance.
Why Choose NY Brite for Your Home Cleaning Needs?
If cleaning your fridge feels overwhelming or you’re short on time, NY Brite is here to help. As a trusted home cleaning service in Manhattan, we specialize in deep cleaning services, including fridges. Our team uses eco-friendly products and proven techniques to ensure every corner of your fridge is spotless and sanitized.
With over 31 years of experience, NY Brite guarantees personalized and professional cleaning services tailored to your needs. Let us take the hassle out of fridge cleaning so you can enjoy a clean and healthy kitchen.
