How to Get Rid of Mold in Fridge

Opening your fridge and spotting mold can quickly turn a good day sour. That unwelcome guest not only creates unpleasant odors but also poses a health risk. Whether it’s from expired food or unchecked spills, mold thrives in dark, damp spaces like a fridge. The good news? Learning how to get rid of mold in fridge interiors is straightforward with the right tools and a bit of elbow grease. Let’s walk through the process of reclaiming your fridge and keeping it mold-free.

Why Mold Forms in the Fridge

Before tackling the cleanup, let’s talk about how mold finds its way into your fridge. Mold loves environments that are cool, damp, and dark. While the cold temperature slows its growth, it doesn’t stop it altogether. Forgotten leftovers, spills, and high humidity can all contribute to mold taking up residence in your fridge. The key to removing it is addressing both the visible mold and the conditions that allow it to thrive.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Rid of Mold in Fridge

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather everything you’ll need:

• Rubber gloves
• Mask (optional but helpful for those with allergies)
• White vinegar or baking soda
• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Sponge or microfiber cloth
• Toothbrush or small cleaning brush
• Paper towels
• Trash bag

Step 2: Empty the Fridge

To clean effectively, you’ll need to start with an empty canvas.

1. Remove All Food: Take everything out of the fridge, including shelves and drawers. This will give you easy access to all areas.
2. Sort and Discard: Toss out any items that have mold or expired. Be cautious not to spread mold spores when handling moldy food.
3. Store Safe Items Elsewhere: Place unspoiled food in a cooler or another fridge while you work.

Step 3: Clean Removable Shelves and Drawers

1. Wash Separately: Take shelves, bins, and drawers to the sink for cleaning. Use warm, soapy water and a sponge to scrub off any visible mold or stains.
2. Disinfect: After cleaning, sanitize these items with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, or a baking soda solution (2 tablespoons of baking soda per quart of water).
3. Air Dry: Let the parts dry completely before returning them to the fridge.

Step 4: Tackle the Interior

1. Create a Cleaning Solution: White vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural cleaners. Mix either:
   • Equal parts white vinegar and water
   • 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a quart of water
2. Scrub Away Mold: Use a sponge or cloth soaked in the solution to wipe down all interior surfaces, including walls, door seals, and corners. For hard-to-reach areas, use a toothbrush.
3. Rinse and Wipe Dry: After cleaning, use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue. Then dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or paper towel to prevent moisture buildup.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Gaskets

The rubber seals around your fridge door (gaskets) are prime spots for mold growth due to trapped moisture.

1. Inspect for Mold: Open the gasket folds to check for hidden mold.
2. Clean Thoroughly: Use the same cleaning solution and a toothbrush to scrub the gaskets. Be gentle to avoid damaging the seal.
3. Dry Completely: Pat the gaskets dry with a paper towel to remove all moisture.

Step 6: Replace Food and Shelves

Once everything is clean and dry:

1. Wipe Down Containers: Before placing food back in the fridge, wipe down all jars and containers to ensure no mold spores remain.
2. Reorganize the Fridge: Use airtight containers for food to prevent spills and moisture buildup.

Preventing Mold in the Future

Now that your fridge is sparkling clean, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here are some tips to prevent mold from returning:

1. Clean Regularly: Make fridge cleaning a monthly habit.
2. Check Food Weekly: Discard expired items promptly and inspect fresh produce for signs of spoilage.
3. Control Moisture: Use a refrigerator deodorizer or baking soda to absorb excess moisture and reduce humidity.
4. Wipe Spills Immediately: Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent mold-friendly conditions.
5. Keep It Cool: Ensure your fridge is set to the ideal temperature (below 40°F) to discourage mold growth.

A Mold-Free Fridge for a Happier Home

Getting rid of mold in your fridge doesn’t just protect your food—it also safeguards your health. With a little effort and some household cleaning staples like vinegar or baking soda, you can eliminate mold and prevent it from making a comeback. Regular maintenance and attention to spills will keep your fridge a clean, safe place for all your favorite snacks.

If cleaning your fridge feels like just one more thing on a never-ending to-do list, don’t worry. For homeowners in housekeeping Denver CO, Family First offers professional cleaning services tailored to your needs. From spotless kitchens to mold-free fridges, their team ensures your home stays clean and comfortable—no matter what life throws at you.

So the next time mold sneaks into your fridge, you’ll know exactly what to do. And with a little help from Family First, you can keep your home in tip-top shape, all while enjoying the best that Denver has to offer!