Does vinegar kill fridge mold?

Author: Isabell Blanda  |  Last update: Saturday, January 10, 2026

Yes. For small mold patches, you can safely remove them using a solution of vinegar and water or baking soda. Empty the fridge, scrub all surfaces, and dry thoroughly. For persistent mold or strong odors, consider professional cleaning services.

Is it OK to clean fridge with vinegar?

Vinegar is one of the best things to clean a fridge with. Not only does its acidic qualities help to break down grease or sticky marks, but kills mold and bacteria spores and deodorizes lingering smells. What's more, it is food safe, so is perfect for food storage areas like refrigerators, or even pantries.

How to get rid of mold in a refrigerator?

- For the interior, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle or use a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon of baking soda per cup of water). Spray and Scrub: - Spray the cleaning solution generously around the moldy areas inside the fridge. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate the mold.

What is the best cleaner for mould in fridge?

We have found that a vinegar solution is also effective for removing mould. Add one part of vinegar to two or three parts of water and either spray on to the gasket or apply using a soft cloth or damp sponge. Wait for 30 seconds and then wipe down the gasket.

How do I stop mould growing in my fridge?

Preventing fridge mold from popping up is definitely better than having to clean it. You can prevent it by eating your food before it goes bad. And discarding food right away when it does start to rot. Also: Be sure to cover food in the fridge (either with foil, plastic wrap, or by storing it in a food-safe container).

how to “clean” a MOLDY refrigerator or freezer

What is the best mold killer for fridge?

Use a vinegar solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it on the interior surfaces of the fridge to kill mold and mildew.

Which kills mold better, bleach or vinegar?

Vinegar is better at killing mold because it can work on both porous and nonporous surfaces. It also terminates molds at their roots so the mold won't return and is also safer than bleach. You can even combine it with baking soda to make it more effective.

What is the ratio of vinegar to water to kill mold?

Mix 1 cup each of vinegar and warm water into a spray bottle. Spray a cleaning cloth with the solution and gently dab the affected area until the mould is gone. Absorb the cleaning solution with a dry cloth and leave to air dry.

Does white vinegar kill bacteria?

Vinegar can kill microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses and treat yeast infections. Due to its antimicrobial properties, vinegar has been used for the treatment of ear infections, warts, and nail fungus. It has also been used to treat certain skin infections and burns.

Can a moldy fridge be saved?

Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep your refrigerator mold-free: Cleaning the Rubber Seal: If mold persists inside the door's rubber seal, you can remove it using a solution of one tablespoon of chlorine bleach mixed with one part of water. This will effectively kill and remove the stubborn mold.

How to get black mould off fridge seal?

Mix the oxygen bleach powered with warm water according to the manufacturer's instructions – this will typically be about one tablespoon of oxygen bleach in a gallon of water. Apply it to the seals with a sponge and leave it for 10-15 minutes to allow the bleach to penetrate and kill mold spores effectively.

Why did mold grow in my fridge?

Rotting food is the most common source of refrigerator mould, but can occur even if you have a crystal clean fridge. Mould only needs moisture, air, a warm fridge temperature (above 4°C) and varying humidity levels to develop. A damp, dark environment is what mould loves the most, and fridges are dark most of the time!

Can you spray vinegar in the fridge?

To clean the inside of the fridge, spray the inside of the fridge with a solution of vinegar and water, concentrating on soiled areas and let it soak in.

What should you not clean a fridge with?

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.

How to clean a moldy fridge with vinegar?

Mix about half a cup of vinegar with one cup of water. Pour the mix on a rag and start cleaning with shelves, drawers, egg racks, and other removable surfaces. You will have to take them out of the fridge and clean them. Dry before returning them to place.

Does vinegar kill 100% of mold?

Yes, vinegar is a mild acid that kills 82% of mold species. It's often used as a natural and nontoxic alternative to cleaning chemicals when it comes to killing household mold. Cleaning vinegar, which contains 6% acetic acid, is the best type for killing mold.

What kills 100% of mold?

Vinegar can kill mold by penetrating it to its roots. Other options include hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, essential oils, and lemon. For larger mold infestations, homeowners will want to hire a professional mold remediation company.

Can I leave vinegar on mold overnight?

Yes, you can leave vinegar on mould overnight, though this isn't necessary as it usually takes effect after an hour. However, you can't use any type of vinegar, for mould removal you must use distilled white vinegar.

What is the best natural mold killer?

Vinegar typically performs best on mold when it is used undiluted in full strength. Simply transfer the white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the vinegar directly onto the mold. Do not rinse or scrub.

Is cleaning vinegar the same as white vinegar?

Cleaning vinegar and white distilled vinegar are very similar in their composition (namely, acetic acid and water), but the key difference lies in the acidity levels between the two. "Cleaning vinegar generally contains a higher acetic acid concentration than regular white vinegar," says Sokolowski.

Which vinegar is best for killing mould?

Using White Distilled Vinegar to Kill Mold. White vinegar is most commonly found with 5% acidity and works best undiluted, so don't worry about mixing it with water first.

What are signs of mold sickness?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

How do I keep mold out of my refrigerator?

In order to keep your fridge and your food safe, here are some tips to follow to prevent mold growth.
  1. Clean It Out Regularly. One of the main reasons mold has the chance to grow in your fridge is because food is left for longer than it should. ...
  2. Keep It Dry. ...
  3. Use Airtight Containers. ...
  4. Use Baking Soda.

Can you get rid of mould in a fridge?

Clean With Vinegar, Baking Soda and Warm, Soapy Water

Spray all mouldy surfaces with vinegar before washing them thoroughly with a mixture of baking soda and soapy water. You will probably have to scrub thoroughly as mould can be very persistent.

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