| Refrigerator--Cleaning Information |
Clean refrigerator compartment regularly, even though it does not require defrosting. Turn it off and unplug. Remove all food and removable interior parts. Wash with a solution of 1-2 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water. Rinse and wipe dry. Wash removable glass shelves and plastic parts in warm detergent solution, rinse and wipe dry. Do not put either glass or plastic in hot water; they may crack, especially if cold. Clean door gasket with detergent solution; rinse and dry.
Occasionally clean freezer compartment following manual instructions.
Wash exterior of cabinet with detergent solution; rinse and dry. A creamy appliance wax may be used occasionally to protect painted exterior and make spots easier to wipe off.
Wipe up spills in the refrigerator promptly to avoid staining and odors.
Several of the plastics used for interior parts of the refrigerator are easily stained by berries, fruits, and other colored foods and absorb and retain odors. So tightly wrap or cover stored foods and remove "old" foods before they spoil.
These plastics may soften at high temperatures so never put boiling or hot water in them. They may be damaged by various household chemicals, so never use cleaning waxes, spray-on cleaners, concentrated chlorine bleach on them. Follow your manual directions for cleaning the different plastic drawers, shelves, etc. If you do not have a manual, be safe by using a mild detergent (a hand-dishwashing liquid) and lukewarm water solution, or a baking soda and water solution for cleaning. NEVER use abrasives like scouring powder or scouring pads, as these plastics are easily scratched.
Occasionally vacuum (or brush) dust from condenser, usually under the front bottom grille (see manual for location and directions). Also at the same time, wash the plastic pan which collects water from automatic defrosting and replace it in the same location.
Unpleasant odors develop, either from improper storage of food or from spoilage.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus.
MSU 2003
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