Speed-Clean Your Refrigerator Checklist

Take your refrigerator from filthy to flawless in 20 minutes with this cleaning checklist.

Bosch Integra Bottom Mount refrigerator
Photo: URTESY OF SCHENECTADY MUSEUM
  • 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:

    Attach the baking-soda pod's suction cups to an interior wall.

  • 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. All done!

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