How to Clean Your Freezer (and All of Its Components)

You would think that an appliance kept at below freezing temperatures just stays clean, but you'd be wrong. It's important to regularly clean your freezer every 3-6 months because over an extended period of time, there will be spills and drips that can make your freezer pretty funky. It's also important to take care of frost buildup that takes up space, prevents a tight seal, and keeps you from having an efficient freezer.

Keep It Simple

Stick to basic cleaning supplies like vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. Skip harsh chemical solutions unless mold is a major problem. For deep cleaning, hydrogen peroxide or a bleach solution can be used on non-porous surfaces, but rinse thoroughly.

You can also use DIY solutions or natural remedies, like distilled vinegar or tea tree oil, but avoid mixing chemical cleaners.

Materials We Use

Mild detergent
Warm water
Baking soda
Soft cloths or sponges
Toothbrush or small brush
Vacuum with a brush attachment
Towels
Bucket
White vinegar (optional)
Spray Bottle (optional)

Thick ice build-up on a freezer shelf. — Credit: Emily Fazio
Cleaning the Walls
Before you get started, see if your appliance has significant freezer frost or ice buildup, if it does, **defrost it by putting a bowl of hot water in the empty freezer**. If you're going to defrost it, make sure that your frozen foods are preserved in an extra-deep freezer or a cooler with ice packs.
**Disconnect power** by unplugging the appliance or flipping the circuit breaker. Remove all frozen food.
If defrosting, place towels around the base to catch melting ice. Check and replace these towels often as they become saturated.
**Mix a solution** of hot water and mild detergent.
**Wipe the walls** with a soft cloth or sponge dipped in the solution.
**Rinse** with a cloth dampened in clean water and dry completely before plugging it back in.

Melted popsicle in a freezer door. — Credit: Emily Fazio
Cleaning the Water Line
Regularly clean the water line to keep the water and ice clean.
**Turn off the water supply** to the freezer.
**Disconnect** the water line.
Flush the line with a **vinegar and water solution**.
**Rinse** thoroughly with clean water and reconnect the line.
Cleaning the Ice Maker
A clean ice maker is essential for great ice cubes.
**Turn off the ice maker** and remove the ice bin.
**Wipe** the ice maker with a damp microfiber cloth dipped in warm, soapy water.
Use a toothbrush to clean small crevices.
**Rinse**, wipe with a dry cloth and reassemble.

Defrosting a freezer while cleaning. — Credit: Santiago Urquijo / Getty Images
Cleaning Shelves, Racks, and Bins
Whether you have a chest style freezer or a drawer-type freezer, the organizational components need to be kept clean. Freezer racks and bins can harbor caked-on spills and food residue.
**Remove and store all frozen items**. This is a good time to check for spoiled food or freezer burn.
**Pull out shelves** (racks and bins) from the freezer compartment.
**Wash** them with warm, soapy water.
Use baking soda on stubborn stains and gently scrub with a wet cloth or dish sponge.
**Rinse** thoroughly and dry thoroughly before placing them back in the freezer.
Cleaning Freezer Vents and Fans
Keeping vents and fans clean ensures proper airflow and efficient operation.
**Unplug** the freezer (or flip the circuit breaker).
**Use a vacuum** with a brush attachment to remove dust from vents and fans.
**Wipe** with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt.
**Repack your freezer.** Keep in mind that freezer air vents operate best when the appliance is 75% full.
Cleaning the Drain Hole (Appliable to Chest Freezers)
The drain hole can become clogged, leading to water accumulation inside the freezer.
**Locate the drain hole** at the bottom of the freezer. You may need o remove the drain plugs.
Use a mixture of **warm water and vinegar** to flush the drain and get rid of unpleasant odors.
Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove debris.
Ensure the drain is clear and flowing properly.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

Freezers can collect moisture, leading to mold spores and bad smells. After cleaning, leave the door open for an hour to dry out. You can also place used coffee grounds or a moisture absorber inside to help control humidity.

If mold returns often, check rubber seals and gaskets for wear. Damaged seals can trap moisture and lead to mold exposure or food contamination.

FAQ

What should you do to your freezer after a power outage?

After a power outage, check your frozen foods. If ice crystals remain, most food is still safe. If the freezer warmed up for too long, throw out anything questionable to avoid food safety risks.