Think about this: when was the last time you cleaned your freezer? Well, if you’re like most folks, it’s probably one of the most neglected – and forgotten about – areas of your home. Because it stays so cold, it is not as quick to stink as the refrigerator can be. The problem with this is that when we do get around to cleaning it, it’s usually grossly overdue. Here’s a simple, minute-by-minute plan for cleaning your freezer without ruining your whole afternoon. If you’re efficient, this shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes!
Before you start, make sure you have all your supplies on hand and ready for use. You’ll need:
- Rubber Gloves
- Empty ice chest
- Rag or sponge
- Towel or paper towels
- Empty spray bottle
- Water
- White vinegar
- Liquid dish soap
- Deodorizer
Minutes 1 to 3:
Unplug the refrigerator. Put on rubber gloves. Empty the ice from the freezer trays into a large cooler. Scrub the trays with water, liquid soap, and a sponge. Set aside to dry.
Minutes 4 to 7:
Unload the freezer. Ditch anything that has expired or is freezer-burned and covered in ice crystals. Put the rest in the ice chest.
Minutes 8 to 11
Remove the drawers and detachable shelves and place them in the sink. Scrub them well with soap, water, and a sponge. Set aside to dry.
Note: Most freezers defrost every 8 to 12 hours. If yours has more than ¼ inch of ice on the base or walls, manually defrost it. Before proceeding to the next step, dip a rag in rubbing alcohol, then cover the ice. Chip away frost with a plastic spatula.
Minutes 12 to 13:
Mix cleaning solution in a spray bottle: 1 cup water, 1 teaspoon white vinegar and 1 teaspoon dish soap. Shake to blend.
Minutes 14 to 17:
Douse the interior with the cleaner. Wipe down the walls and shelves with paper towels.
Minutes 18 to 20:
Plug the refrigerator back in. Hang or place the odor fighter in the back. Return the shelves and food.
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