The refrigerator is one of the most important home appliances. Not only does it play a crucial role during EID but it also plays an important role in preserving foods on any normal day. From fish and meat to vegetables and canned items, most people are dependent on this appliance for preserving foods for a longer period of time. But this is precisely where you have to be very careful with refrigerator hygiene. Because a dirty and unhygienic refrigerator can cause many health-related issues.
For instance, the food spoils quicker in an uncleaned refrigerator as opposed to a clean one. Besides, eating stale foods can put us at risk for various diseases. A dirty refrigerator also gets damaged faster and can cost you money in the process. That is why keeping your refrigerator clean is very important. That being said, here are some refrigerator cleaning tips to keep your refrigerator clean and fresh.
Clean the refrigerator coil
First, unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet. Now carefully remove dirt or any residue from the coil at the back of the refrigerator with a thin cotton cloth or soft brush.
Remove the ice
If the refrigerator is not equipped with non-frosted technology, then your freezer will collect ice. Sometimes excess ice makes it very difficult to store foods in the freezer as ice occupies the space inside. If your freezer collects excess ice, then unplug the refrigerator a few hours prior. That way the excess ice will melt and you don’t have to use elbow grease.
Remove food from the fridge
Fix a date to clean the refrigerator beforehand. And try to finish all the food before the cleaning date. Take the other items out from the refrigerator before cleaning it. That way it will be easier for you to follow the rules of cleaning the refrigerator.
Clean the shelf and tray
After removing all the food, take out the shelves and trays from the refrigerator. Then put them in a mixer of detergent and disinfectant. You can make this solution at home if you want. Keep them in the mixer for at least 30 min. Then wipe them clean with a sponge and use clean water to rid them of any dirt or residue. Now put them in the sun or in an open and airy space to dry properly. Once dried, wipe them with a clean and dry piece of cloth and keep them in a dry place.
Clean the interior and exterior of the refrigerator
To clean the exterior and interior of the refrigerator you have to follow certain rules. In that regard, put baking soda or vinegar in lukewarm water and mix them together to make a cleaning solution and then wipe the inside using the solution with a sponge. It will rid the refrigerator of any bad odor. Also, don’t forget to clean the corners and rubber sealings with a brush.
Once the interior is cleaned, soak a towel in the same mixer and use it to wipe the exterior of the refrigerator as well. If there is a stubborn stain, use the same mixture with a sponge but apply a little bit of force.
Prepare for use
To keep the refrigerator functioning properly just following the refrigerator cleaning tips is not enough. Once the cleaning is done, it is important to prepare it for use. To do that, wipe the excess water and cleaning solution that has fallen on the floor. Now get the dried-out shelves and trays and put them in place properly in the refrigerator. Plug it back in the power outlet and wait for 2 hours and then put all the food back in the refrigerator.
Eid al-Adha is knocking at the door. And the refrigerators in every house play a vital role in preserving all the foods that have been prepared during the festival. So follow these instructions to clean the refrigerator before the festival begins.
