How to clean your fridge

Your refrigerator is probably the only appliance at home that can never catch a break! Most people neglect to clean it, too. Keeping this kitchen workhouse sanitary is important, so as to ensure that food and groceries are kept fresh.

Step 1: Arm yourself with: a multipurpose cleaner spray, dishwashing liquid, a non-abrasive sponge, a washcloth, paper towels, and trash bags.

Step 2: Air out the fridge and get it ready for a serious scrub down. Take everything out and divide the contents into three categories: one for things that need cleaning out (such as reusable containers with stale food), another for things that will go back into the fridge, and the last for discarding (throw these straight into the trash bags).

Step 3: Clean the contents. Next wipe up drips, leaks and the bottom of jars and cartons with a damp cloth. Make sure that whatever goes back into the fridge is clean, so you don't run the risk of reintroducing odours and mess.

Step 4: Clean the interiors by removing shelves and drawers, before spraying the inside of the fridge with cleaner, letting it soak into difficult stains. Wash these fixtures with warm soapy water and a sponge, and set aside to dry.

Wipe down the interior of the fridge with a damp cloth to remove any traces of cleaning product. Tackle hard-to-reach areas and crevices with a paper towel. Make sure to clean the fridge doors, too!

Step 5: Return shelving and contents. To prevent mould growth, make sure the removable shelving and drawers are totally dry before inserting them back into the fridge.

Tip: An open jar of baking soda, a dish of fresh ground coffee, or a clean sock filled with activated charcoal are some ways to absorb unpleasant smells. You can also crumple up balls of brown paper and place them with fruit and vegetables in the drawers to absorb smells and excess moisture.

Visit Home & Decor for more stories.