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How to clean a fridge

Your fridge is often the largest appliance in your kitchen, so it is important to give it the attention it deserves, and maintain it like your countertops and other surfaces. A clean fridge is more energy-efficient and will last longer, so make the effort at least every few months (more often if there's food residue inside) to keep it hygienically clean for you and your household.

Good to know

  • Do not use abrasive, chloride or acidic cleaning agents or solvents.
  • Do not use scouring or abrasive sponges. The metallic surfaces could corrode.
  • Never clean shelves and containers in the dishwasher. The parts may become deformed!

Step by step guide

1. Before cleaning: switch off the appliance.
2. Take out the food as well as any items and remove all the shelves and drawers slowly.
3. Clean the inside of the appliance with a soft cloth and the Bosch Fridge Cleaner for effective and food-safe cleaning.
4. Wipe the door seal with clear water only and then wipe dry thoroughly.
5. Allow to dry for a few minutes with the fridge door open.
6. Switch the appliance back on and put the food back into the appliance.

Cleaning the fridge shelves

Cleaning the interior

A clean fridge translates to fresher groceries and even better health as it significantly lowers the chances for food contamination. Here are some useful tips and steps to follow when cleaning inside of your fridge:

1. Ensure all food has been removed from refrigerator and stored in a cool location.
2. Take out any ‘movable’ parts inside the fridge such as shelves and drawers.
3. Shelves and drawers can be soaked in warm soapy water for few minutes before cleaning with a soft kitchen sponge to remove any stains. You can also lay them on a towel so that they don't slide.
4. For best results, leave shelves and drawers to air dry completely.
5. Wipe down fridge walls and door seals with a damp cloth. For best results use a food-safe Fridge Cleaner. Ensure water does not get into the lights.
6. Dry with a soft cloth then return shelves and food back to fridge

Stainless steel Bosch fridge exterior

Cleaning the exterior

Cleaning the outside of the fridge raises some questions - what products can you use on different materials and can you clean the control markings? Our tips below will help you return the showroom shine to the outside of your fridge in no time:

1. Wipe down outside of the fridge with a clean microfiber cloth and warm, soapy water.
2. Dry it with a paper towel or a clean and dry cloth.
3. For stainless steel fridges, apply the Bosch Stainless Steel Conditioner or use the Soft Conditioning Cloths. Remember to always clean the appliance in the direction of the grain.
4. DO NOT apply the conditioner or any cleaning product to logos, control labels or black stainless steel.
5. Black stainless steel can be simply cleaned with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.

How to clean a water dispenser

Give your fridge the love it deserves and improve the quality of your drinks with our step by step guide on cleaning the water dispenser.

How to clean a stainless steel fridge

If you have a stainless steel fridge there are additional steps you can take to ensure your appliance is well looked after.

How to change a fridge filter

Changing the fridge filter will help you drink cleaner and better tasting water every day. Ensure you do this every 6 months for best results.

How to clean the fridge coils

Periodically cleaning the condenser coils will help your fridge work effectively and to keep your food fresh. Not sure how it works? Let us help.

Contact Us

Do you need further help and support? Our customer service team will be able to provide the help you need.

Repair Service

Need to book a repair? Not a problem. We can arrange for an engineer to repair your appliance, both in and out of warranty.

User Manuals

If you need any help and support that is specific to your Bosch appliance model, your user manual is the best place to find this information.

Bosch Store

Search for original spare parts and buy tested and approved accessories and care products for your Bosch appliances in the Bosch store.