As temperatures rise in summer, your fridge and freezer become even more important for keeping food fresh and safe. But warmer weather can also lead to unpleasant odours, moisture build-up, and extra strain on your appliances. Maid In Essex shares simple and effective tips to keep your fridge and freezer clean, efficient, and smelling fresh during the summer months.
1. Clean Out Regularly
In hot weather, food can spoil faster. Go through your fridge weekly and discard anything out of date or unused. Wipe shelves with a solution of bicarbonate of soda and warm water to remove sticky spills and lingering smells without using harsh chemicals.
2. Store Food Properly
Make sure all food is stored in sealed containers or wrapped well. This prevents cross-contamination and keeps strong-smelling foods like cheese or onions from affecting other items. In your freezer, label and date everything to avoid mystery meals and waste.
3. Keep It Organised
A cluttered fridge restricts airflow and makes it harder to keep food at a consistent temperature. Group similar items together and avoid overfilling either compartment. This helps your appliances run more efficiently and makes it easier to find what you need.
4. Check the Temperature
Your fridge should be set between 3–5°C and your freezer at -18°C. If it’s too warm, food won’t stay fresh; too cold, and you’ll waste energy. Use a thermometer if your appliance doesn’t have a digital display.
5. Defrost When Needed
Ice build-up in the freezer can reduce efficiency and take up valuable space. If your freezer isn’t frost-free, defrost it during cooler evenings when food is less likely to spoil. Always dry the inside thoroughly before turning it back on.
6. Keep It Smelling Fresh
Place an open container of bicarbonate of soda in the fridge to absorb odours. Replace it every month, especially in summer when smells tend to intensify. You can also use a small bowl of coffee grounds or a sliced lemon for a natural fresh scent.
7. Don’t Leave the Door Open
Warm air rushes in every time the door is opened, making your appliance work harder. Keep door-opening to a minimum, especially during summer, and make sure it’s sealed properly.
Keeping your fridge and freezer clean and well-maintained not only prevents unpleasant odours and bacteria but also helps reduce energy bills and food waste. If you’d rather leave the deep cleaning to someone else, Maid In Essex offers thorough domestic cleaning services, so your appliances stay as fresh as your food.