{ cleaning the refrigerator }

Number 1

Unplug the refrigerator and remove all contents. 

Place items huddled together so that they will stay cooler longer. If your fridge is very dirty and the cleaning will take a long time you will need to place spoilable items in a cooler with ice.

Number 2

Take out shelves and drawers. If any other part is removable, take it out as well.

You will need to fill 1 side of your sink 3/4 of the way with hot/warm water, 1/2 cup of washing soda and 3 squirts of dish soap.

Spread dry towels on your counter next to the sink for drying.

Number 3

Using a sponge, scrub brush or rag, gently wash each removable part. You can get in creases, and crevices with a tooth brush. 

Place each washed item on the towels you spread out, to dry. 

**If you want to get the drying process done faster take a clean, dry towel and hand-dry them.

Number 4

Taking your rag used for washing the shelves and drawers, go to the fridge and wipe down all the sides, top and bottom. 

**If you have a lot of crumbs compiled on the bottom you may want to use your vacuum hose so you won't make a mess on the floor. 

After your fride is wiped out, use paper towels and glass cleaner to get rid of water marks and streaks.

Number 5

Now is the time to put your cleaned shelves and drawers back into the fridge.

**Be careful when putting them back in, that you space them correctly so you can fit tall items on the correct shelf.

Number 6

Wipe down the bottoms and sides of all the bottles and packages of food before placing them back into your fridge. 

**Toss any items that are past their prime.

Have fun organizing each item into a specific place. 

**You can use fun bottles to hold drinks instead of pitchers and jugs. 

**Another good idea is to use Lazy-Susan's to place your condiments and small containers on.

Number 7

Place a box of baking soda with the date on it on a shelf to keep your fridge smelling fresh longer.

Turn your refrigerator back on! 

**Now is a good time to make sure your temperature dial is set correctly (35-38 degrees F).

**Clean your refrigerator every 6 months and change your water 

filter at the same time.

**hints and tips