A pressure washer (or just a garden hose) is great for removing the bulk of the mess of the fridge inside and out. This step is not crucial, but it is desirable. It is certainly more of a professional step – it saves a lot of time and gives a better final result, washing out dirt from the cracks and crevices.
You can clean your fridge with a solution of warm water with a mild detergent or a mixture of equal parts of water and vinegar. You can use this solution to clean the interiors. Pay special attention to areas where spills or stains are present. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away any residue.
Cleaning the Exterior of a Refrigerator
All Refrigerators* can be cleaned with a mild solution of soap and warm water with a clean, soft cloth or microfiber cloth. They should be wiped dry with a soft clean cloth or microfiber towel to avoid streaking or water spotting.
Wipe the inside of the empty refrigerator with hot, soapy water, then wipe with clean water to rinse off soap. Dry with a clean towel. DON'T FORGET TO WIPE INSIDE THE DOORS AND ANY DRAWERS THAT CANNOT BE REMOVED. USE A SOLUTION OF 1 TABLESPOON OF LIQUID BLEACH IN 1 GALLON OF WATER TO SANITIZE YOUR REFRIGERATOR.
A refrigerator shouldn't be power washed, as you could cause damage. The better option would be to use a quality general-purpose cleanser followed by disinfectant bleach.
1. Pressure washing (optional) (30 minutes) A pressure washer (or just a garden hose) is great for removing the bulk of the mess of the fridge inside and out. This step is not crucial, but it is desirable.
Refrigerators and Freezers
If your refrigerator or freezer was submerged in flood water, it should be replaced. Refrigerators and freezers contain insulation that could be wet if the units were under water. This insulation is difficult to reach without destroying the cabinet of the unit.
Don't use bleach
It can harm the materials of the fridge interior and pose a risk for our health when transferred to food. Should you look for a strong alternative that breaks down stuck-on food, you can make your own cleaning solution. Add one part white vinegar and three parts water in a spray bottle.
Refrigerator water filters often use carbon and have an average rating of 20 microns, meaning they mostly remove contaminants that affect taste and smell. Refrigerator water filters cannot be relied on to remove all particles and bacteria that may be harmful to anyone drinking that water.
Combine equal parts vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. "Spray down all surfaces of the interior and allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping with a soft cloth," says Cohoon. Make sure to also spray the built-in side drawers of your refrigerator and any grooves, too.
To clean the outside, simply wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth using appliance polish wax or mild liquid dish detergent. Then, dry and polish the outside with a clean, soft cloth.
Take a bucket with warm soapy water, wipe down all internal and external surfaces. Followed this with a spritz of good quality aerosol sanitiser. Leave the doors open for the fridge to dry completely. Wash the shelves and drawers and let them dry well.
Mix 3 ounces of Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner with 4 cups of cold water in an empty spray bottle. Using cold water will help your fridge reach optimum temperature quicker after you've finished cleaning.
While there is no standard for how often to clean a refrigerator, a complete cleaning every couple of months will help to prevent food spoilage and cross-contamination of Listeria , a bacterium that causes foodborne illness and that can survive at 40º F.
Yes, Clorox wipes can be used for quick cleaning, but ensure the surfaces are food-safe by wiping them down with water afterward.
Cleaning Inside of a Refrigerator
The best cleaner is a combination of abrasive salt and bubbly soda water. Create a homemade all-purpose cleaner by combining the following in a gallon of hot water: 1 cup clear ammonia, ½-cup vinegar and ¼-cup baking soda. Pour into a spray bottle, or use from a bowl with a sponge.
Can a Refrigerator Get Wet? Refrigerators are built for indoor use, so getting them wet is a big no-no. Water can mess up the electrical parts, cause rust, and even lead to mold. If your fridge gets wet, you need to act fast to avoid serious damage.
Refrigerators and freezers with wet insulation cannot be salvaged. If there were only a few inches of water in the house, refrigerators and freezers are probably fine. Ovens and ranges are usually salvageable. Wet controls should be replaced.
Remember, moisture in your refrigeration system is not a friend. It can lead to a lot of issues like freezing, reduced efficiency, and even damage to your equipment.
Workers use the low pressure setting to gently deliver the precise amount of cleaning chemical to toilets, urinals, sinks, stall partitions, and floors. This method is fast and easy.
One of the primary ways power washing can cause electrical issues is through water ingress in electrical components. High-pressure water can penetrate electrical outlets, light fixtures, and other outdoor electrical components, leading to short circuits and electrical shocks.
Power washing can cause visible damage to concrete surfaces, including etching, pitting, and deterioration of joints. Using the wrong nozzle, applying excessive pressure, spraying too close, or holding the nozzle in one spot for too long can contribute to damage during pressure washing.