We rely on our fridge and freezer every day, but if they are not cleaned regularly, they can start to develop unpleasant smells, ice build-up or other issues. Regular cleaning can also help support better food storage and make it easier to keep track of what you have on hand. For a healthier fridge and freezer, follow this cleaning guide at least once a quarter. Step 1: Clear Out Your Fridge or Freezer First, turn off or unplug your fridge or freezer to save energy while you clean. You do not need the inside fridge light while wiping everything down, and the freezer may also need time to defrost. Defrosting can take a few hours, but you can speed up the process by gently removing ice as it melts. Avoid using sharp tools, as these can damage the inside of your freezer. Take all food out of your fridge or freezer so you have enough space to see and clean every corner. Go through your food and throw out anything that is out of date, spoiled or no longer needed. You may even find the source of unpleasant smells in the process. If you need to keep food cold while cleaning, place it in an esky or cooler bag. Go ahead and remove shelves, drawers and other removable parts from your fridge or freezer. These are best washed by hand, similar to washing dishes. Use warm water and dishwashing detergent, but avoid putting very cold glass shelves straight into hot water, as the sudden temperature change may cause them to crack. Step 2: Clean the Inside For food safety reasons, it is best to use gentle cleaning solutions inside your fridge and freezer. Avoid harsh chemicals or strong cleaners that you might use in other parts of the kitchen. You can try: Vinegar and water, mixed at 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water Dishwashing liquid and water, using only a small splash of dishwashing liquid Baking soda and water, using 2 tablespoons of baking soda in 250ml of water for tougher stains A fridge-safe deodorising wipe or cleaner Use warm water and wipe down the inside of your fridge with a cloth soaked in your chosen cleaning solution. Pay special attention to corners, shelves, drawers and door compartments to make sure you do not miss any spots. For tougher marks, let your baking soda solution sit for around 10 minutes before wiping it away. Step 3: Clean the Outside Once the inside is clean, move on to the outside of your fridge or freezer. If safe to do so, pull the appliance forward so you can reach the sides, top and floor area around it. Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a suitable all-purpose cleaner or a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Make sure you also clean around the handles, as these are touched often throughout the day. Fridge Doors and Handles For stainless steel fridges, fingerprints are often the biggest issue. A soft cloth and suitable stainless steel cleaner can help restore the finish. For white fridges, marks and stains may need a little extra attention. Start with warm soapy water or a gentle all-purpose cleaner, then wipe dry with a clean cloth. Door Seals The door seal can collect crumbs, spills and moisture over time. Wipe it carefully with a soft cloth and a gentle vinegar and water solution. Keeping the door seal clean helps the fridge or freezer door close properly and can reduce the chance of mould and mildew building up. Avoid harsh cleaners where possible, as these may dry out the rubber over time. Step 4: Put Everything Back Once your fridge or freezer is clean and dry, place your food back inside and turn the appliance back on. As you restock, take the opportunity to organise your food in a way that makes sense for your household. Keep everyday items easy to reach, group similar products together and place foods that need to be used soon towards the front. Step 5: Keep It Clean for Longer Once your fridge and freezer are fresh again, a few simple habits can help keep them cleaner for longer. Clear Out Food Weekly Check your fridge and freezer before doing your weekly shop. This helps prevent bad smells, reduces food waste and makes it easier to see what needs to be used next. Wipe Shelves Regularly A quick wipe of shelves and drawers each week can help prevent spills and stains from building up. If something spills, clean it straight away before it becomes harder to remove. Keep Short-Life Items at the Front Store items that need to be used sooner at the front of the fridge. This helps remind you what is there and can make it easier to plan meals before food goes to waste. Check Freezer Build-Up If your freezer is not frost-free, keep an eye on ice build-up. Regular defrosting can help your freezer run more effectively and make it easier to store food neatly. A clean fridge and freezer can make a big difference to your kitchen routine. By clearing out old food, wiping spills quickly and giving your appliance a proper clean every few months, you can help keep food storage fresher, tidier and easier to manage. Time for an upgrade? Read Betta’s Fridge Buying Guide to compare different fridge types, features and sizes, and find an option that suits your kitchen, household and everyday needs.
