how to clean fridge with baking soda?

Are you tired of the strong chemical smell that lingers in your fridge after cleaning it? If so, why not try using baking soda instead? Not only is it a natural and safe alternative, but it’s also incredibly effective at removing tough stains and odors. In this article, we will show you step-by-step how to clean your fridge with baking soda, leaving it spotless and smelling fresh without any harsh chemicals. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

Preparation

Before diving into the process of cleaning your fridge with baking soda, there are a few things you need to do to prepare. These steps will ensure that the cleaning process goes smoothly and effectively.

Firstly, gather all the supplies you will need. This includes baking soda, a bowl of warm water, a sponge or cloth, and any other cleaning tools you prefer to use. Make sure that everything is easily accessible before starting.

Next, empty the fridge of all its contents. This means removing all food items from the shelves and drawers. You can place them in a cooler with ice to keep them fresh while you clean.

Once the fridge is empty, remove any detachable parts such as shelves or drawers. These should be washed separately in warm soapy water before being left to air dry.

By taking these simple preparatory steps before beginning the actual cleaning process, you will be able to clean your fridge more efficiently and thoroughly.

Gathering Supplies

To clean your fridge with baking soda, you will need to gather a few supplies. These include:

  • Baking soda
  • Warm water
  • A cleaning cloth or sponge
  • A bucket or basin

Baking soda is an effective and natural cleaning agent that can help remove stains and odors from your fridge. It is also safe to use on food contact surfaces.

Warm water will help dissolve any dirt or grime in your fridge, making it easier to clean. You can use a bucket or basin to mix the water and baking soda.

A cleaning cloth or sponge will be used to scrub the interior surfaces of your fridge. Make sure it is clean and free of any debris before using it.

By gathering these supplies beforehand, you can ensure that you have everything you need to clean your fridge efficiently and effectively.

Emptying the Fridge

Before starting the cleaning process of your fridge with baking soda, it is essential to empty its contents. This step is crucial as it helps to prevent any food from spoiling or getting contaminated during the cleaning process.

To begin with, gather some supplies like a cooler, a plastic bag, and some paper towels. The cooler will be used to store all the food items that need refrigeration while you clean the fridge. The plastic bag can be used to store any food items that are no longer fresh and need to be discarded.

Next, start by removing all the shelves, drawers, and other removable parts from your fridge. Place them on a countertop or table where they can be easily cleaned. If there are any tough stains or spills inside the fridge, take a quick photo so you can refer back to it when cleaning.

Once everything has been removed from your fridge, use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior surfaces of your fridge gently. You can also use a mild detergent mixed in water for this purpose if needed. Make sure you don’t use harsh chemicals as they may damage your fridge’s surface.

After wiping down all interior surfaces of the fridge with a damp cloth or mild detergent solution, rinse them thoroughly with clean water. Then dry them using paper towels or a clean cloth.

By following these steps, you can empty your fridge quickly and efficiently without causing any damage to its contents or structure. It is always recommended to take extra care while handling fragile items like glass jars or bottles during this process.

Cleaning the Fridge

Cleaning the fridge is an important task that should be done regularly to maintain a hygienic and fresh environment for your food items. To clean your fridge with baking soda, follow these steps:

Removing Stains and Odors

Removing Stains and Odors:

Stains and odors are common problems that can make your fridge look and smell unpleasant. Fortunately, baking soda is a great solution for both of these issues.

To remove stains, mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, you can add some vinegar to the mixture.

For stubborn odors, place an open box of baking soda in your fridge to absorb any unwanted smells. You can also create a natural deodorizer by mixing baking soda with essential oils such as lemon or lavender and placing it in a small container in your fridge.

Another effective way to eliminate odors is by using activated charcoal. Simply place a few pieces of activated charcoal in a small container and leave it in your fridge for several days until the odor disappears.

It’s important to note that regular cleaning and maintenance will help prevent stains and odors from occurring in the first place. Be sure to clean up spills promptly, check expiration dates on food items, and regularly discard any expired or spoiled food.

By following these tips for removing stains and odors with baking soda, you can keep your fridge looking and smelling fresh for longer periods of time.

Scrubbing the Interior Surfaces

To scrub the interior surfaces of your fridge, you will need a cleaning solution. One effective and natural option is baking soda. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can remove grime without scratching surfaces.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Mix a quarter cup of baking soda with one quart of warm water in a bucket or large bowl.
  2. Dip a clean sponge or cloth into the solution and wring out excess liquid.
  3. Starting at the top of the fridge, wipe down all interior surfaces, including shelves, drawers, and walls.
  4. For tough stains or stuck-on food, sprinkle some baking soda directly onto the spot and use a damp sponge to scrub gently.
  5. Rinse your sponge or cloth frequently in the cleaning solution to avoid spreading dirt around.
  6. Once you’ve cleaned all interior surfaces, rinse them thoroughly with plain water to remove any remaining baking soda residue.
  7. Dry everything with a clean towel before replacing shelves and food items.

It’s important to note that you should never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your fridge’s interior surfaces, as they can damage the finish and potentially contaminate your food.

Regularly scrubbing down your fridge’s interior with baking soda can help prevent odors and keep it looking clean and fresh. Aim to do this every few months or as needed if you notice spills or stains.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to effectively clean your fridge’s interior using just baking soda and water!

Cleaning Exterior Surfaces

When it comes to cleaning a fridge, many people tend to focus solely on the interior surfaces and forget about the exterior. However, keeping the exterior of your fridge clean is just as important as cleaning the inside.

To start cleaning the exterior surfaces of your fridge, you will need some supplies such as baking soda, a sponge or cloth, warm water, and a bucket. Begin by mixing a couple of tablespoons of baking soda with warm water in the bucket. Dip your sponge or cloth into the mixture and wring it out well.

Next, wipe down the exterior surfaces of your fridge with the sponge or cloth. Pay special attention to any areas that have accumulated dirt or grime. For stubborn stains or spots, you can sprinkle some baking soda directly onto them and scrub gently with your sponge or cloth.

Once you have finished cleaning all of the exterior surfaces, rinse off any remaining baking soda residue with clean water and dry everything with a clean towel.

It’s important to note that you should never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on stainless steel exteriors as they can scratch and damage the surface. Instead, stick to gentle cleaners like baking soda mixed with warm water.

By regularly cleaning the exterior surfaces of your fridge with baking soda, you can keep it looking shiny and new while also preventing any buildup of dirt or grime that could potentially make its way inside.

Finishing Up

After cleaning the interior and exterior surfaces of your fridge with baking soda, it’s time to finish up by replacing the shelving and food items. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Organize the shelves: Take this opportunity to organize your fridge in a way that makes sense for you. Consider grouping similar items together or placing frequently used items at eye level for easy access.
  2. Check expiration dates: As you replace food items, be sure to check their expiration dates. Toss any expired or spoiled food to prevent odors and mold growth.
  3. Wipe down containers: Before placing food back into the fridge, wipe down any containers or packaging that may have collected dust or crumbs.
  4. Consider a freshener: If you want to keep your fridge smelling fresh, consider placing an open box of baking soda on one of the shelves. You can also use a commercial fridge freshener or make your own by filling a small container with coffee grounds or activated charcoal.

In addition to these finishing touches, there are some preventative maintenance tips you can follow to keep your fridge clean and odor-free:

  • Wipe up spills and messes as soon as they happen.
  • Regularly check and clean the drip pan underneath the fridge.
  • Vacuum the coils on the back of the fridge every 6 months.
  • Keep an eye on temperature settings and adjust as needed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your freshly cleaned fridge stays organized and odor-free for weeks to come.

Replacing Shelving and Food Items

When you finish cleaning your fridge with baking soda, it’s time to put everything back in its place. Before doing so, make sure that all the shelves and drawers are completely dry. You can use a clean towel or paper towels to dry them off.

Once everything is dry, it’s time to start putting items back into the fridge. Start with the items that have the shortest shelf life, such as dairy products and meats. This way, you’ll be able to keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t spoil before you have a chance to use them.

As you’re putting items back in the fridge, take the opportunity to check expiration dates and throw away anything that has gone bad. This will help prevent future odors from developing in your fridge.

If any of your shelving or drawers were damaged during the cleaning process, now is the time to replace them. Most manufacturers sell replacement parts for their fridges, so check with your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer directly if you need replacement parts.

Finally, consider implementing some preventative maintenance tips to keep your fridge clean and fresh-smelling for longer periods of time. For example:

  • Wipe up spills as soon as they happen.
  • Store foods in airtight containers to prevent odors from spreading.
  • Keep an open box of baking soda in your fridge at all times to absorb odors.
  • Clean your fridge on a regular basis (every 3-6 months) to prevent buildup of dirt and grime.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your fridge stays clean and fresh-smelling for years to come!

Preventative Maintenance Tips

To prevent having to deep clean your fridge frequently, there are some preventative maintenance tips you can follow to keep it in good condition. Here are some ideas:

  1. Wipe up spills immediately: If you spill something in your fridge, wipe it up right away with a damp cloth or paper towel. This will prevent the spill from hardening and becoming more difficult to clean later on.
  2. Check expiration dates regularly: Make sure you’re regularly checking the expiration dates of items in your fridge so that you can throw out anything that’s gone bad before it starts to smell or cause other issues.
  3. Keep raw meat covered: To avoid cross-contamination and potential foodborne illnesses, make sure any raw meat is stored in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
  4. Use airtight containers: Storing food in airtight containers can help prevent odors from spreading throughout your fridge and also helps keep your food fresh for longer.
  5. Keep an open box of baking soda inside the fridge: Placing an open box of baking soda inside your fridge can help absorb any unwanted odors and keep your fridge smelling fresh.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your fridge clean and fresh for longer periods of time, reducing the need for frequent deep cleaning sessions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cleaning your fridge with baking soda is an affordable and effective way to maintain a clean and fresh-smelling refrigerator. Preparation is key, so be sure to gather all necessary supplies and empty the fridge before beginning the cleaning process. When cleaning the interior surfaces, focus on removing stains and odors by scrubbing them with a baking soda solution.

Don’t forget to clean the exterior surfaces too! Once everything is sparkling clean, finish up by replacing shelving and food items and implementing preventative maintenance tips such as wiping up spills immediately and regularly checking expiration dates. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your fridge stays in top condition for years to come.