Your fridge might look clean at first glance, but spills, crumbs, spoiled food and lingering smells can quickly turn it into a less-than-hygienic space.
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According to the home appliances company Hirsch’s, a regular cleaning routine can help keep your fridge fresh, reduce the spread of bacteria and make it easier to spot food that needs to be thrown away.
When to clean your fridge
Start with a quick weekly check
Once a week, give the inside of your fridge a quick once-over, explains Hirsch’s.
Wipe up any spills or crumbs before they have a chance to build up. It’s also a good time to look through your food and get rid of anything that has expired or is clearly spoiled. This small habit can make a deeper clean much easier later.
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Give it a proper clean every month
Once a month, take things a step further.
Hirsch’s advises removing the food and wiping down the shelves, drawers and interior surfaces. Check for anything that may have gone bad, particularly items that have been sitting at the back of the fridge.
If you use baking soda to help control odours, replace it every two months.
When does your fridge need a deep clean?
Aim for a more thorough clean about every three months.
Empty the refrigerator completely, then remove the drawers and wash them with warm, soapy water. Wipe the inside of the fridge from top to bottom and make sure everything is completely dry before putting the food back.
It’s also a useful opportunity to reorganise your fridge and see what you’ve been forgetting about.
Also see: Cleaning mistakes that actually make your home dirtier
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