Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1543375
1. POWER DOWN. Before battling the build-up, power down your fridge for safety. Start by unplugging your refrigerator or turning off the temperature control. Not only does this ensure a hazard-free clean, but it also saves energy during the process. 2. CLEAR OUT THE OLD. Life gets busy, and it's easy for outdated food to slip through the cracks. Check expiration dates on packaged food and toss anything past its prime. Pay special attention to sauces and condiments—they're notorious for silently spoiling. Finally, store any food you're keeping in a cooler to stay fresh as you work. 3. WASH EQUIPMENT. Next, remove your shelves and drawers. If you have glass or ceramic accessories, let them warm to room temperature before washing, so they don't break or crack. Then, fill your sink with hot water, dish soap, and a splash of white vinegar. Thoroughly scrub your shelves and drawers (especially the corners and hard-to-reach areas) and set them aside to dry. 4. CLEAN THE INSIDE. While your equipment dries, soak a microfiber cloth in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar, and wipe your fridge from top to bottom. Pro tip: don't forget the rubber door seal, shelf seams, and condiment racks. When you're done, use paper towels to dry. 5. RESTOCK WITH STYLE. The most satisfying part of a refrigerator refresh is putting everything back in its rightful place. Plug your fridge in, reset the temperature control, and replace those newly cleaned shelves and drawers. Wait a few minutes for everything to cool, and begin restocking your items. Line produce bins with paper to absorb extra moisture, and tuck a box of baking soda in there to keep unpleasant smells away. 6. POLISH TO PERFECTION. Give the outside of your fridge a quick polish for the perfect final touch. For standard surfaces, a soft cloth and mild dish soap will do; avoid abrasive scrubbers that could leave scratches. If you have stainless steel, reach for a microfiber cloth and a cleaner designed for stainless surfaces, or a spray bottle with white vinegar. Wipe in the direction of the grain from top to bottom, and remove excess streaks with a paper towel or fresh cloth. Finish by applying a drop of olive oil to a dry microfiber cloth and polishing in a circular motion. Your refrigerator is the unsung hero of your home—and likely one of your most overlooked appliances. It's the keeper of midnight snacks, the preserver of leftover bites, and the silent sous chef that makes every dinner a hit. But even heroes need some TLC. Follow these six steps to give your fridge a much-deserved refresh for better flavors, safer food, and a kitchen that shines. 9 Microfiber cloths & sponges 9 Dishwashing gloves 9 Trash bags 9 Cooler 9 Paper towels 9 Spray bottle 9 Stainless-steel polish 9 Olive oil 9 Dish soap 9 Distilled white vinegar 9 Baking soda Things You'll Need COMING HOME MAGAZINE 21