Every three months cleaning under the fridge needs to be undertaken for dust and food debris accumulation, preventing odors and reducing the risk of pests and allergies. Mold growth is also a concern, particularly in damp environments. To effectively clean under your fridge, unplug the appliance, remove the grille or vent cover, vacuum the coils, wipe down the wall and back panel with a water-vinegar mixture, sweep and mop the floor space, and finally, move the refrigerator back into place and ensure all cooling systems are functioning properly.
8 Steps To Clean Under Fridge
Step 1 - Clearing the Top of the Fridge
Make sure to remove all items like pet snacks, containers, and food from the top of your fridge before moving them away from the wall. This may feel like an extra hassle, but it prevents accidents and spills, giving you a chance to clean the fridge's surface and organize your items before returning them.
Step 2 - Disconnect the Fridge
Disconnect your fridge from the power source. Move it away from the wall to reach the area behind it conveniently, ensuring the fridge doors remain shut to retain the coldness inside for as much time as possible.
Step 3 - Moving the Fridge
Moving your fridge without causing floor or appliance damage, first, take advantage of its hidden casters by gently shifting it back and forth from the front. Opt for forward movement rather than sideways to protect the floor and fridge. If needed, alternate sides to fully reveal the floor underneath. Furniture sliders can also aid in smooth movement.
Step 4 - Cleaning the Vent Cover and Coils
The vent cover on your refrigerator should be fastened. Loosen these screws and carefully take off the cover. Afterward, use a vacuum to clean both the cover and the coils situated behind it.
Step 5 - Cleaning by White Vinegar
Mix the same amount of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to make a solution. Then, spray this solution inside your fridge and on the cover of the grill you took off.
Once cleaned, reattach the cover. Additionally, take advantage of this opportunity to thoroughly clean the exterior surfaces of your fridge, including the front, top, and sides. Use a spray to moisten the walls behind it, then wipe vigorously to remove any stubborn residues. This extra step also helps eliminate mildew and mold spores.
Step 6 - Use of Effective Floor Cleaner
For a safe and effective way to clean various floors, try mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Baking soda helps scrub away dirt, especially in tight spots like under fridges, and it also fights odors without strong chemicals. Adding hydrogen peroxide makes this mixture even better at removing stains and killing germs.
Also Read: How to Clean Linoleum Floors?
Step 7 - Cleaning Underneath the Fridge
Use your vacuum to remove any leftover particles that have ended up under your refrigerator. For any sizable bits and clutter, sweep them away and dispose of them in the garbage. Lastly, use a blend of vinegar and water, or your preferred floor cleaner, to mop the floor and nearby areas. Make sure everything is fully dry before putting your refrigerator back in place.
Step 8 - Reconnecting the Fridge
Lastly, put your refrigerator back in its original location and reconnect the power. After it's back in place, verify that the fan starts running and that all cooling mechanisms are functioning correctly.
How to Clean Under Fridge Without Moving It?
Stick with Cloth
To tidy beneath your appliances without relocating them, take a yardstick and affix either an old pair of pantyhose, a microfiber cloth secured with a rubber band, or a worn-out tube sock to one end. Glide your makeshift tool beneath each appliance several times, then use a broom to remove any debris you've dislodged.
The Zip Tool
A hair trap cleaner or zip tool, akin to those utilized for removing hair from drains, proves invaluable for retrieving pet hair, dust balls, crumbs, and assorted debris lurking beneath appliances like refrigerators. Due to their elongated design, these tools can effortlessly reach into tight spaces without risking damage to your flooring, offering a lightweight and non-abrasive solution.
Vacuuming
Utilize a flat vacuum attachment or a microfiber cloth attached to a mop handle to reach tight spots under appliances like the dishwasher or stove. For built-in refrigerators, consider removing the motor cover and employing a vacuum upholstery tool to eliminate accumulated dust.
