Cleaning & Prepping Your Fridge for the Holidays in 2026

Keeping your fridge clean is essential for food safety and the efficient operation of your appliance. Regular cleaning helps prevent unpleasant odors and stains, and extends the life of your refrigerator. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process to thoroughly clean your fridge.

We have broken down the cleaning process into four main sections:

• Preparation
• Cleaning the Interior
• Cleaning the Exterior
• Finding and Cleaning Condenser Coils

By following these instructions, you can keep your fridge clean, organized, and free from harmful bacteria.

Preparation

Before starting, gather all the necessary cleaning supplies to ensure an efficient cleaning process:

• All-purpose cleaner or vinegar
• Baking soda
• Microfiber cloth or sponge
• Bucket or basin
• Warm water
• Soft-bristle brush
• Refrigerator coil brush
• Vacuum cleaner with attachments

Unplug the refrigerator to ensure safety and prevent damage. Remove all food items, checking each shelf, drawer, and compartment. Discard expired or spoiled items and store the rest in a cool place such as an ice chest to prevent spoilage during cleaning.

Cleaning the Interior of the Fridge

Thoroughly clean the interior of your fridge using the following steps:

1. Remove shelves, drawers, and bins: Take out all removable parts. This allows you to clean each component separately.
2. Wash with warm, soapy water: Submerge the shelves, drawers, and bins in warm, soapy water. Scrub using a sponge or cloth, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry.
3. Wipe down interior surfaces: Use a mild cleaner, like a water-vinegar mix or non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner. Dampen a clean cloth or sponge and wipe down the fridge's interior surfaces, focusing on sticky or stained areas. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to prevent damage.
4. Clean the door gaskets: Cleaning the door gaskets, or door seals, is essential for your fridge's efficiency. Inspect them for damage and replace door gaskets if necessary. Clean the gaskets with mild detergent and warm water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly to the gaskets to preserve them and help them seal properly.
5. Dry and reinsert shelves, drawers, and bins: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reinserting them. This keeps your fridge organized and prevents cross-contamination between food items.

Regular cleaning of your fridge's interior not only maintains its appearance but also promotes food safety and prevents bacterial growth.

Removing Stubborn Stains and Odors

For stubborn stains and odors, follow these tips:

Stubborn Stains

Use a baking soda and water paste. Apply the paste to stained areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth. This method effectively removes tough food and beverage stains.

Odors

Place an open box of baking soda in your fridge. Baking soda absorbs odors, keeping your fridge smelling fresh. Replace the box every few months. Avoid using strong chemical cleaners that can damage surfaces and leave harsh smells.

Another way to help prevent odors is to replace the air filter if your fridge has one. If you want to add an air filter to your fridge, add the Universal Air Filter to the refrigerator compartment as shown in this video:

These tips will help keep your fridge clean, fresh, and odor-free. Always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's instructions for any cleaning products used.

Clean the Exterior of the Fridge

Wipe down exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove fingerprints, stains, and spills. This prevents dirt buildup and keeps your fridge looking presentable.

How to Clean a Stainless Steel Refrigerator

When you need to clean a stainless refrigerator, the process requires special attention to maintain its sleek appearance. Here's a quick guide on how to clean a stainless steel refrigerator:

• Wipe off dust, dirt and deposits: Use a damp cloth or sponge and mild detergent to wipe off dust, dirt, fingerprints and deposits from the exterior stainless steel surfaces. Dry the exterior with a towel.
• Avoid abrasive materials: Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch the surface. Stick to soft cloths and sponges to keep your stainless fridge looking new.
• Use a stainless steel cleaner: Apply a small amount of stainless steel cleaner on a microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the grain. This prevents streaks and maintains the finish.

Regularly cleaning your stainless steel refrigerator will help maintain its shine and prevent fingerprints and smudges.

How Do I Clean Refrigerator Coils?

Dirty condenser coils can lead to cooling problems, so it's essential to know how to clean refrigerator coils effectively. Here's a video followed by a step-by-step guide:

1. Locate the condenser coils: Depending on your fridge model, the coils may be located under or behind the refrigerator. Consult your owner's manual for precise instructions. Access the coils by removing the grill or cover depending on their location. If necessary, you can schedule professional refrigerator cleaning and maintenance and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to clean the coils and maintain your fridge.
2. Use a coil brush: Gently brush the coils to remove dust and debris. This improves airflow and ensures efficient cooling.
3. Vacuum the area: After brushing, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining dust and dirt. This keeps the coils clean and your fridge running smoothly.
4. Reassemble the fridge: Reinstall the grill or cover in front of the coils.

Plug in the refrigerator power cord and load the food back into your fridge.

By regularly cleaning your refrigerator coils, you can maintain efficient cooling performance and extend the life of your appliance. Cleaning the coils also helps prevent problems that can lead to the need for refrigerator repairs.

If you prefer to have a Sears Home Services technician clean and maintain your fridge, schedule service and we’ll get your refrigerator in top shape to it performs smoothly and lasts longer.