By now you’ve probably developed a regular kitchen cleaning routine that includes your counters, stovetop, sink, floors, and other frequently used spots—but when was the last time you gave your refrigerator a good scrub? Since the fridge is always stocked with food, it can be a hassle to clean, which is why many of us put off this important task. Luckily, we’ve put together a minute-by-minute guide to help you give your refrigerator a thorough clean in less time than it takes to heat up last night’s leftovers.
This is an adaptation of an article that originally appeared in the April 2011 issue of REAL SIMPLE, written by Allegra Muzzillo, Julia Edelstein, and Ashley Niedringhaus. We’re sharing it as part of our ongoing 25th birthday celebration—and because the information is just as useful today as it was then.
What You’ll Need
- Refrigerator coil brush
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Baking soda or other odor absorber for refrigerators
- Trash bag
- Sponge with a scouring side
- Liquid dish soap
- Paper towels
- Old toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth
- Distilled white vinegar
How to Clean Your Refrigerator (Quickly)
In addition to cleaning up any spills as they happen to prevent the spread of bacteria, you should give your fridge a deep clean about four times a year—it’s a good chore to do when the seasons change. Follow this step-by-step guide to clean yours in 20 minutes flat.
Minutes 1 to 2
Unplug the refrigerator. Slide a coil brush underneath the unit’s kick plate (the rectangular panel just above the floor) to remove dust.
Minutes 3 to 7
Empty the contents. Toss anything past its prime into a trash bag. Recycle glass and plastic containers.
Minutes 8 to 10
Remove the drawers and place them in the sink. Scrub the drawers with a sponge, warm water, and liquid dish soap. Leave them out to air-dry.
Minutes 11 to 15
Douse the interior with a multisurface spray. Wipe down the walls, then each shelf. (Don’t forget the shelf seams and the rubber door seal.) Use an old toothbrush and a spritz of cleaner to dislodge grime from crevices.
Minutes 16 to 17
Plug in the refrigerator. Return the drawers. Put the food back in, wiping down jars and bottles.
Minute 18
Add an odor absorber designed specifically for refrigerators.
Minutes 19 to 20
Clean the exterior.
- For enameled steel: Use a multisurface solution and paper towels.
- For stainless steel: Dampen a microfiber cloth with distilled white vinegar and rub in the direction of the grain.
And you’re done!
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