Keeping your fridge clean is essential for maintaining a healthy kitchen environment. Over time, spills, expired food, and odours can accumulate, making it necessary to perform a thorough deep clean. Follow this step-by-step guide to deep clean your fridge using UK cleaning products and ensure your appliance stays spotless and hygienic.

What You'll Need:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Warm water
• Microfibre cloths
• Sponges
• Old toothbrush
• Antibacterial spray (e.g., Dettol, Zoflora)
• Dishwashing liquid (e.g., Fairy Liquid)
• Bin bags
• Rubber gloves

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Empty the Fridge:

• Start by removing all the food items from your fridge. Check expiry dates and dispose of any expired or spoiled items.
• Place perishable items in a cooler bag or another fridge to keep them fresh during the cleaning process.

2. Remove Shelves and Drawers:

• Take out all removable shelves, drawers, and compartments. These will be easier to clean separately.
• Let glass shelves come to room temperature before washing to prevent them from cracking due to sudden temperature changes.

3. Prepare Cleaning Solution:

• Mix a solution of warm water and dishwashing liquid in a basin or sink. This will be used to wash the removable parts of your fridge.
• For stubborn stains, use a paste made from baking soda and a small amount of water.

4. Clean Shelves and Drawers:

• Wash the shelves and drawers in the warm soapy water. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away any grime and food residues.
• For tougher stains, apply the baking soda paste and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a microfibre cloth.

5. Clean the Interior:

• Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. This natural cleaning solution is effective for removing odours and disinfecting surfaces.
• Spray the interior walls, ceiling, and floor of the fridge with the vinegar solution. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen any stuck-on debris.
• Wipe down the interior surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth, making sure to reach all corners and crevices.
• Use an old toothbrush to scrub around door seals and other hard-to-reach areas.

6. Disinfect and Deodorise:

• Spray an antibacterial cleaner like Dettol or Zoflora on the interior surfaces to ensure thorough disinfection. Follow the product instructions for best results.
• Wipe down the surfaces again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

7. Clean the Exterior:

• Wipe down the exterior of the fridge with a mixture of warm water and dishwashing liquid. Pay special attention to handles and touchpoints.
• For stainless steel fridges, use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner to remove fingerprints and smudges, leaving a streak-free finish.

8. Reassemble and Restock:

• Once all parts are dry, reassemble the shelves and drawers in the fridge.
• Before placing food items back inside, wipe down jars, bottles, and containers to remove any sticky residues.
• Consider organising your fridge by grouping similar items together, making it easier to find what you need and reducing the risk of spills.

9. Maintain Regularly:

• To keep your fridge clean, wipe up spills immediately and perform a quick clean of the interior every month.
• Use a fridge deodoriser or place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb odours and keep your fridge smelling fresh.

By following these steps and using readily available UK cleaning products, you can ensure your fridge remains clean, hygienic, and free from unpleasant odours. Regular deep cleaning not only extends the life of your appliance but also promotes a healthier kitchen environment.