Cleaning a Second-Hand Fridge: 7 Powerful Steps to a Fresh and Rewarding Experience

In the pre-owned market, fridges are budget-friendly, especially if you are looking to save some money. Since a second-hand fridge has already been used, it might not be in perfect clean condition like a new fridge.

Before you start using it, cleaning a second-hand fridge thoroughly is essential to ensure it’s fresh, safe, and free from any lingering grime, odors, or bacteria left behind by the previous owner. According to Electrolux, giving your second-hand fridge is very important before you start using as bacteria accumulated might lead to infections.

The following guideline will help you understand the process of cleaning a second-hand fridge, leaving it sparkling and ready to be used. From removing stubborn stains to tackling odors, these easy and effective tips will help you start fresh with your “new-to-you” fridge.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before starting the process of cleaning a second-hand fridge, you need to collect a few items that you will need. Having the right supplies will make work easier, quicker and more effective. Some of the items that you need when cleaning a second-hand fridge include:

a. Microfiber cloths: Soft and non-abrasive for wiping surfaces without scratching.

b. Warm water and mild dish soap: A gentle solution to clean most parts of the fridge.

c. Baking soda: Great for removing stubborn stains and neutralizing odors.

d. White vinegar: A natural disinfectant to cut through grime and eliminate bacteria.

e. Lemon slices– removes odor from the fridge

f. Spray bottle: For applying cleaning solutions evenly.

g. Toothbrush or small scrub brush: To clean hard-to-reach corners and crevices.

h. Gloves: To protect your hands while scrubbing.

i. Trash bags: For disposing of any expired food, debris, or unwanted items.

Having all these supplies ready will ensure you’re fully prepared to give your fridge the deep clean it deserves.

Step 2: Unplug and Empty the Fridge

Before you begin cleaning a second-hand fridge, you must unplug it from power source first. The importance of disconnecting from the power source is to ensure safety, saving energy and defrost any ice for an easy cleaning process.

Next, if the food has any food items, empty the fridge completely:

• Remove all food items: Check for expired or spoiled food and discard anything you won’t need.
• Take out shelves and drawers: Carefully remove all detachable shelves, drawers, and compartments for a thorough cleaning later.
• Dispose of unnecessary items: Place any food wrappers, residue, or trash in a bin or trash bag to avoid clutter.

Everything in the fridge is often removed so that every corner of the fridge is well cleaned without any obstacles. Also, after cleaning, the fridge will air out well preventing odors from disinfectants from lingering in the fridge.

Step 3: Detach washable sections of the fridge

Once you have detached all parts of the fridge that can be taken out, you should start by deep cleaning the shelves, drawers, and compartments. Better Homes & Gardens advice that cleaning each compartment removes any hidden food and dirt residue, improving freshness of the fridge.

How to wash detachable parts of the pre-owned fridge

1. Soak in Warm Soapy Water:
   • Fill your sink or a large basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
   • Place the shelves, drawers, and any removable compartments into the water. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen stubborn grime.
2. Scrub Gently:
   • Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub off dirt and dried spills. For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda onto the surface and scrub gently. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers that might scratch the surfaces.
3. Rinse and Dry:
   • Rinse the parts thoroughly with clean water to remove soap residue.
   • Let everything air-dry completely or wipe them down with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Ensuring these parts are clean and dry before putting them back in place is a key step when cleaning a second-hand fridge. It not only removes bacteria but also prevents any lingering odors or mold buildup.

Step 4: Clean the Interior of a Fridge

Since the shelves and drawers of the fridge have been removed, cleaning the interior of the fridge should be easier. The step is important as it eliminates leftover grime, stains, and bacteria, leaving the fridge fresh and ready for use.

Steps to Clean the Interior:

i) Prepare a Cleaning Solution:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 liter of warm water. Baking soda is gentle, non-toxic, and excellent for removing stains and odors.
• Alternatively, use a solution of equal parts, white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a natural disinfectant.

ii) Wipe Down All Surfaces:

• Dip a microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution or spray it directly onto the fridge walls, ceiling, and door compartments.
• Pay extra attention to corners, crevices, and seals where dirt tends to accumulate. Use a toothbrush or small scrub brush to reach tight areas.

iii) Tackle Stubborn Stains and Odors:

• For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently.
• Use vinegar to wipe down areas with persistent odors or grime, as it neutralizes smells effectively.

iv) Dry Thoroughly:

• Wipe all clean surfaces with a dry, clean cloth to ensure no moisture is left behind. This helps prevent mold or mildew buildup.

Therefore, by cleaning a second-hand fridge thoroughly on the inside, you ensure that it’s not only spotless but also safe for storing food. The interior will feel as good as new, free of any unpleasant surprises.

Step 5: Check for more lingering odors

Pre-owned refrigerators mainly have a lingering smell, and removing the smell is one of the important parts cleaning a second-hand fridge. Even after following all the steps above, the smell might persist.

Effective Odor-Removal Solutions:

1. Baking Soda
   • Place an open box or a bowl of baking soda inside the fridge. Baking soda naturally absorbs and neutralizes bad smells.
   • For best results, leave it in the fridge for at least 24 hours or until the odors are completely gone.
2. Activated Charcoal
   • Activated charcoal works wonder for stubborn smells. Place a small bowl of charcoal briquettes inside the fridge and let it sit for a few days to absorb lingering odors.
3. White Vinegar
   • Fill a small bowl with white vinegar and place it inside the fridge. Vinegar’s natural acidity neutralizes odors effectively without leaving behind harmful residues.
4. Fresh Coffee Grounds
   • Spread a layer of dry coffee on a shallow tray or bowl. Coffee absorbs odors and leaves behind a subtle, pleasant scent. Replace it after a few days if needed.
5. Lemon Slices
   • For a fresh and citrusy scent, place slices of lemon or orange in a bowl. Not only does this absorb mild odors, but it also adds a refreshing smell to the fridge. Replace the slices regularly to maintain effectiveness.

Pro Tip: If the smell persists after trying these methods, leave the fridge door open for a few hours to allow proper air circulation.

By addressing lingering odors, you ensure the fridge is odor-free and ready to store food safely, completing the process of cleaning a second-hand fridge for a truly fresh start.

Step 6: Clean the exterior

The exterior of your fridge is just as important as the inside when it comes to cleaning a second-hand fridge. Over time, fingerprints, dust, and grime can accumulate on the surface, making the fridge look worn. Here’s how to restore its shine and keep it looking fresh:

Steps to Clean the Exterior:

a. Prepare a Cleaning Solution:

• Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. For stubborn stains, you can use a vinegar-water solution

b. Wipe Down the Surfaces:

• Use a soft microfiber cloth dipped in the cleaning solution to wipe the fridge’s exterior, including the doors, handles, and sides.
• Pay close attention to high-touch areas like door handles, which often collect the most grime.

c. Clean the Rubber Seals:

• The rubber door seals (gaskets) are prone to collecting dirt and spills. Use an old toothbrush dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub them gently.
• Wipe dry with a clean cloth to prevent mold or mildew buildup.

d. Polish Stainless Steel (if applicable):

• If your fridge has a stainless-steel exterior, wipe it with a cloth dipped in vinegar to remove streaks and fingerprints. Follow up with dry cloth to buff for a polished look.

e. Don’t Forget the Back and Bottom:

• Dust the back of the fridge and clean the coils with a vacuum or duster to improve efficiency. Also, wipe the bottom edges where dust tends to settle.

By thoroughly wiping down the exterior, you’ll complete the process of cleaning a second-hand fridge, leaving it spotless, hygienic, and looking as good as new.

Step 7: Reassemble and Plug It Back In

Now that every part of the fridge has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, it’s time to put everything back together and get your fridge ready for use. This final step completes the process of cleaning a second-hand fridge and ensures it’s functioning efficiently.

When reassembling the fridge, make sure you set the right temperatures, to ensure properly cooling as this prevents future odor. Now your second-hand fridge is ready to provide a fresh, clean, and efficient space to store your food.

How Corido Marketplace Assists with Cleaning

At Corido Marketplace, we understand that purchasing a second-hand fridge is a cost-effective choice, but it often comes with the need for thorough cleaning before use. That’s why Corido Marketplace goes the extra mile to ensure a smooth experience for buyers:

a. Expert Cleaning Advice:

• Through detailed guides, like this step-by-step article, Corido Marketplace provides expert tips on cleaning a second-hand fridge, making it easy to restore your purchase to a like-new state.

b. Access to Cleaning Services:

• For buyers who prefer professional help, Corido Marketplace connects you with reliable cleaning service providers to deep-clean appliances, saving you time and effort.

Summary and Takeaways

A second-hand fridge is a smart, budget-friendly addition to any home, but ensuring it’s clean, fresh, and ready to use is essential.

By following this step-by-step guide to cleaning a second-hand fridge, you can eliminate grime, bacteria, and unpleasant odors, giving your appliance a new lease of life.

Whether you’ve just purchased it or are refreshing an older fridge, these tips provide a fresh start for storing food safely and confidently.

Now that your fridge is sparkling clean, it’s time to enjoy the benefits of your hard work—happy organizing!

FAQs: Cleaning a Second-Hand Fridge

1) Why clean a second-hand fridge?
To remove grime, odors, and bacteria, making it safe for food storage.

2)What supplies are needed?
Microfiber cloths, soap, baking soda, vinegar, lemon, gloves, and a scrub brush.

3) What is the first step?
Unplug the fridge, empty it, and remove shelves and drawers.

4) How to clean the interior?
Use a mix of baking soda or vinegar with water. Wipe all surfaces and dry them.

5) How to remove odors?
Place baking soda, charcoal, vinegar, coffee grounds, or lemon slices inside.

6) How to clean the exterior?
Wipe with soapy water or vinegar, clean seals with a brush, and polish stainless steel.

7) Should the back be cleaned?
Yes, dust the coils and wipe the bottom edges.

8) What’s next after cleaning?
Dry, reassemble, plug in, and set the temperature.

9) How does Corido help?
Offers cleaning tips and connects you to cleaning services.

10) How to maintain it?
Wipe regularly, check for expired food, and keep odors under control.