A cleaner fridge: Essential tips for a healthier kitchen
During kitchen cleaning, we often neglect the interiors of kitchen appliances, particularly the refrigerator, despite its crucial role in storing food. Maintaining its cleanliness is essential, yet we seldom focus on refrigerators when cleaning. Discover which areas of the refrigerator require special attention.
Refrigerators can harbour more bacteria and microorganisms than other kitchen appliances. Most accumulate on the shelves and lower drawers, where cold cuts, fruits, and vegetables are frequently stored. Therefore, a thorough clean should be the norm at least once a month. How can this be achieved?
Cleaning the refrigerator with household products
Regular cleaning of the refrigerator's interior is important for the health of the stored food, protecting it from mould, and benefits the appliance by extending its lifespan. Regular cleaning also helps eliminate unpleasant odours from storing items like smoked fish or mouldy cheeses. Avoid chemical cleaners that could pose health risks or contaminate the food.
Before starting the cleaning process, it’s advisable to have a soft cloth, cotton swabs, baking soda, vinegar, salt, and lemon juice ready. Begin by emptying the refrigerator and removing all shelves and drawers. Soak them for a few minutes in warm water and clean them with vinegar. It is also necessary to discard any expired food.
Remember this spot when cleaning the refrigerator
Don't overlook the water container mounted at the back of the refrigerator. If you decide to move the refrigerator, rinse the container using vinegar to clean any sediment. Water enters it through an opening on the rear wall inside the refrigerator, which can be cleared using a special stick or tube. Cleaning the drain with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda won't damage its materials.
It's vital to clean this drain regularly. If it becomes blocked, for instance by food remnants, water may reach the bottom of the refrigerator instead of entering the container. This malfunction can result in flooding the lower drawers and causing the shelves in the freezer, located under the refrigerator compartment, to freeze.
