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 just like in your fridge, over an extended period of time, there will be spills and drips that can make it pretty funky in there. 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.
Materials Needed
- 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)
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.
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.
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.
