Importance Score: 5 / 100 🟠
Keep Your Refrigerator Fresh and Clean: Simple Lemon Cleaning Guide
Refrigerators perform the essential task of keeping our food preserved and fresh, but they can also accumulate grime and residues, particularly when regular cleaning is overlooked. Spills, crumbs, and expired food items can lead to the proliferation of bacteria and unpleasant smells from food decay. While a weekly wipe-down of shelves with warm, soapy water is beneficial, a more thorough cleaning every three to six months is crucial, primarily to prevent bacterial transfer and maintain optimal kitchen hygiene.
Why Regular Fridge Cleaning is Important
Routine refrigerator maintenance is vital not only for hygiene but also for ensuring the appliance operates efficiently and to prolong its lifespan. Accumulated residues from spills and food buildup can become lodged in the seals around the door, hindering proper closure. This can result in temperature fluctuations and accelerated food spoilage, potentially leading to unnecessary food waste and increased energy consumption.
Incorporating proper refrigerator care into your regular cleaning regimen is essential. Fortunately, cleaning experts recommend an effective solution to maintain a spotless fridge and eliminate unwanted smells: a simple lemon hack.
The 30p Lemon Cleaning Method for a Fresh Fridge
Cleaning expert Nicola Rodriguez suggests a budget-friendly method for achieving a clean and fresh-smelling refrigerator using just a lemon. According to Rodriguez, “The natural acidity in lemons can dissolve grease and dirt effectively, eliminating the need for expensive commercial cleaners.”
Using Lemon Wedges for Odour Elimination
For a simple approach to freshen your fridge and neutralize bad odours, slice a lemon into wedges. Place these lemon slices on different shelves within the refrigerator in an open container.
The lemon’s natural fragrance works to capture and eliminate odours originating from food spills or expired food items. This method remains effective for up to a week, providing continuous odour control.
Deep Cleaning with Lemon Juice
If your refrigerator requires a more intensive cleaning, a lemon juice solution can be used. Mix equal portions of lemon juice and water in a bowl or spray bottle. Apply this mixture throughout the refrigerator.
Using a moist cloth, apply the lemon solution to shelves, drawers, and walls, ensuring each surface receives a thorough wipe. The citric acid acts as a natural sanitizing agent, effectively cleaning and leaving behind a fresh, citrusy scent in your fridge.