How to Clean Your Fridge Without Ruining The Food Inside: Practical Tips to Clean it Inside, Outside and Keep it Bacteria Free!

The fridge, often thought of as a bastion of food preservation, is ironically one of the most bacteria-friendly zones in our kitchens. And we're not saying this to disturb you, but studies show that fridges can harbor an array of unwanted guests—bacteria from raw meats, spills from forgotten leftovers, and condensation that gives mold an opportunity to thrive. A 2013 study from the University of Arizona, for instance, found that the vegetable crisper can house up to 750 times the safe level of bacteria for food contact surfaces.

Fridges tend to get grimy simply because of the high traffic: daily food storage, multiple door openings, spills that don’t get wiped up immediately, and the inevitable “lost items” that seem to disappear into the depths. Experts recommend a monthly cleaning to keep these germs in check, along with a seasonal deep clean. But there's more to it than a quick wipe down—you also have to protect the food that will go back inside.

How to Clean Your Fridge Once a Month

When it comes to monthly maintenance, the goal is a light refresh that won't require you to empty the entire fridge or defrost the freezer. Start by removing food that is clearly expired or questionable, and then take out the items from one section at a time. Wipe down shelves and drawers with a damp cloth dipped in warm, soapy water or a mild, food-safe cleaner. One tip: lay a dish towel over your shoulder to dry as you go—no need to introduce additional moisture into an already cool environment. And don't forget the fridge handles! They’re touched more than anything else in the kitchen, so make sure they get a good scrub too.

What to Use (and Avoid) for Food Safety

Choosing the right cleaning products for your fridge can mean the difference between a truly clean space and one that leaves harmful residues. Vinegar and baking soda are your best friends here; both are natural disinfectants that leave no harmful chemicals behind. A mild dish soap also works wonders, but steer clear of strong chemical cleaners like bleach or ammonia. Not only can these cleaners leave a lingering odor, but any trace chemicals could contaminate food items. Stick with natural or mild cleaners to keep your food as fresh and uncontaminated as possible.

How to Clean the Freezer and The Outside of a Fridge

Freezers are another hotspot for odors and icy buildup. Once every three to six months, give the freezer a wipe-down to prevent frost buildup and stale odors from seeping into your ice cream. If frost builds up, you might need to unplug it temporarily for a proper defrost. On the outside, a warm soapy cloth will clean fingerprints and grime off the door. For stainless steel fridges, a dash of baking soda mixed with water can make the surface sparkle without any chemicals lingering near your food.

How to Prevent Bacteria When Food Returns to the Fridge

Once you’ve got the fridge clean, it’s time to return your food in a way that helps keep it fresh and bacteria-free. First, avoid placing food items directly on shelves—consider shelf liners that are easy to wipe clean. Designate specific zones for different food groups (like raw meat on the lowest shelf to avoid drips). Finally, a small container of baking soda can help control odors between cleanings. Regular maintenance, from wiping up spills quickly to staying vigilant about expiration dates, keeps the fridge safer and fresher for everyone in the household.