We open and close the fridge dozens of times a day, reaching for leftovers, snacks, or dinner ingredients. But many of us forget to clean it as often as we should. Over time, spills, food particles, and expired items pile up, and your fridge turns into a hidden mess. So how often should you clean your refrigerator? The answer may surprise you—and the risks of not doing it often enough can be more serious than just a bad fridge smell.
How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator?
It’s easy to lose track of when you last cleaned your fridge. But that doesn’t mean you should wait until there are unpleasant smells or a sticky spill spreads across the shelf. According to experts, regular cleaning is a smart habit.
“[We] suggest cleaning the fridge every 4 months or 120 days," shared Paolo Ganis, the Co-Founder CEO of Vitesy, the company behind Shelfy and the newest iteration, Shelfy Lite, a refrigerator air purifier that helps consumers reduce food waste.
"Bacteria growth and mold proliferate inside almost 1 in 2 refrigerators (46%) with possible risk of food contamination and health problems,” highlights Ganis.
Four months may not seem like a long time, but in fridge-life, that’s plenty of time for grime, crumbs, spills, and forgotten food item residue to add up. Getting your fridge clean on a regular basis keeps your food safe and your fridge smelling fresh.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean It Often Enough?
You might not notice the effects of a dirty fridge right away. But that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. When an accumulation of spills sit for too long or food spoilage goes unnoticed, it can lead to contamination and even health risks.
A fridge that doesn’t get cleaned on schedule can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. That includes common ones like listeria or salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. And it’s not just about old leftovers—liquid spills, sticky jam, or raw meat juices can all spread bacteria fast.
There are also some less obvious issues. A messy fridge can lead to more food waste, since it’s harder to see what you have and what’s still good. Not to mention, the smell of spoiled food can seep into other items, especially dairy products or uncovered leftovers.
To keep things running smoothly, watch out for signs that it’s time to clean, such as:
- A sour or musty smell when you open the fridge
- Sticky shelves or mysterious liquid spills
- Expired or moldy food hiding in the back
- Buildup of frost in the freezer or ice makers
- A door that doesn’t shut properly due to clutter
If any of these sound familiar, it’s probably been too long since your last clean-out.
What’s the Best Way to Make Cleaning the Fridge Easier?
Keeping the refrigerator clean doesn’t have to be a chore you dread. With the right habits, it can become something you keep up without much effort. Instead of waiting for a full-blown mess, a few small steps can help you stay ahead.
Start by setting a recurring reminder every four months. This turns it into a routine cleaning instead of a task you forget. Each time you clean, take everything out. Toss questionable, expired or soon-to-be-expired items. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and built-in side drawers with a cleaning solution of warm, soapy water (use mild dish soap, skip harsh chemicals—they’re unnecessary and can leave a strong smell).
To make future cleaning approaches easier:
- Use fridge mats to catch crumbs and spills
- Immediately clean up spills with warm water and clean cloth
- Store raw meat on a plate or tray to avoid leaks
- Label leftovers with dates so they don’t get lost
- Keep a small box of baking soda in the back to absorb fridge odors
- Group items (like dairy, condiments, or snacks) so they’re easier to move when doing your routine cleaning
A cleaner fridge isn’t just nicer to look at; it also makes cooking and shopping easier. You’ll waste less food, save money, and know exactly what’s inside.
Cleaning your fridge might not be fun, but it doesn’t have to be a big deal either. Stick to the four-month rule, clean up small messes right away, and you’ll stay ahead of the gunk without even thinking about it.
Help—I Cleaned, But My Fridge Still Smells
Even after cleaning, bad odors can stick around if something has spilled into a hidden spot—pay attention to drawers and behind shelves. Mold spores or mildew in the door seals of kitchen appliances can also cause smells. Try removing and washing seals, and place an open box of baking soda inside to help absorb lingering odors.
