How to Clean a Moldy Refrigerator
Gloves
Mask
Old toothbrush
Spray bottle
Bleach
Cheap sponges and rags (you will toss these later)
Charcoal
The smell of the mold is going to be overwhelming so if possible move the fridge outside. Sunlight kills bacteria and mold so if the weather is sunny so much the better. If it's not, you still need to get started, but hopefully you will have a chance to expose the fridge to some direct sunlight before using it.
Put your rubber gloves and mask on before you start. If there is food waste in the refrigerator, empty it all into plastic garbage bags. Be sure to double bag it as the smell and bacteria are sure to be strong. Next create your mold killing bleach formula by mixing 1 part bleach to 1 part water into a spray bottle.
Spray the walls, sides and ceilings of the refrigerator and let stand for at least 30 minutes. Use sponges or rags to wipe clean the inside. You may need to use a little elbow grease. Repeat as necessary to remove the mold from refrigerator.
For the rubber seal around the main and freezer doors, use the same solution and an old toothbrush to clean the mold that gets stuck in the grooves. Leave the doors open and let dry in the sunlight.
Remove and clean the drip pan under the fridge. If it is metal, use a vinegar and water solution instead of bleach to clean it. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
Wait! You aren't finished yet. Before using the refrigerator, place an open bag of charcoal inside and let it run for at least one day. Charcoal acts as an absorbent and this will get rid of any remaining bad odors.
Finally, it takes a bit effort to clean a moldy refrigerator but you will be glad to save the money of replacing it.
Published by Erika Northman
Educator/Writer/Traveler with a passion for languages and learning. View profile
Parenting Firsts: Homemaker HumiliationNot a proud parenting moment when harried young mom with new baby and toddler learns tossing out old, moldy food now and then may be more important to her kids' health than she...
How to Choose and Clean the Tastiest Corn on the Cob If you want to eat the sweetest, most tender kernels there are, then you'll need to know how to choose and clean the tastiest corn on the cob!
How to Get Rid of Mold and Mildew Stains on Popup Camper CanvasYou can get rid of mold and mildew stains on your popup camper, and you can get rid of the mold and mildew stains for good. There are a number ways to remove mold and mildew sta...
Cooking for Two: How to Avoid WasteWith everything that spoils or goes to waste, sometimes cooking for two doesn't stack up especially cheap. But you can master the skill of cooking small meals and learn to avoid...- Mold Removal and Prevention: What Can I Do to Get Rid of Mold?While you won't be able to eliminate mold spores from your home completely, there are ways treat and prevent the problem. Mold removal will get rid of the problem initially, but you'll need to learn how to prevent it...
- The Best Way to Clean Out Your Fridge - No Matter How Nasty It Is?
- How to Organize Your Refrigerator
- The Quick and Easy Method to Clean Your Refrigerator
- How to Clean Out Your Refrigerator in a FLASH!
- How to Clean Your Smelly Refrigerator
- How to Deodorize Your Refrigerator with Vanilla
- How to Win the Battle with a Dirty Refrigerator
- If mold gets behind the refrigerator lining, it can't be saved.
- Remember to toss sponges or rags used.
- Both mold and bleach are dangerous to breathe in so always wear a mask.
1 Comments
Post a CommentGreat tips on moving the fridge outside to clean it. I've dealt with moldy fridges before and it is not a pretty sight, nor a fun thing to deal with :)