Avoid Fridge Mold: 3 Tips For Cleaning And Storing Your Refrigerator In A Storage Unit

Posted on: 17 July 2015

Moving is hectic. There's just so much to do. So it can be very tempting to cut corners when it comes to packing up and storing your things. However, if you fail to prep your fridge and store it properly, you may have a moldy, stinky mess on your hands when it comes time to get it out of storage. And if you've ever had to clean a fridge that's been closed up and sitting with no power, you know how difficult it is to get rid of the smell. Not only is mildew and mold unpleasant to smell, it can pose a health risk to your family. If you have to store your fridge, following are three tips for cleaning it and storing it properly.

Clean Your Fridge Thoroughly

Remove all food items from your fridge and give it a thorough cleaning. To do so, remove all the components you possibly can, including drawers, shelves and storage compartments. Thoroughly wash each component in a solution of warm water and vinegar. A half-and-half solution is best. Using a soft cloth, wipe down the interior of your fridge with the same solution, paying particular attention to cracks, crevices and the seal around the door. 

Let It Dry Completely

Unplug your fridge and dry it thoroughly using a clean cloth. You don't want to leave any moisture at all in the fridge for fear that your fridge may start to mildew while you're transporting it to the storage unit. Once your fridge is thoroughly dry, you can replace the shelving and bins. While you're waiting to load the fridge on the moving truck, leave the fridge and freezer doors open. You will have to close them while your fridge is in transport, but you should do all you can to shorten the amount of time the doors will be closed.   

Store Your Fridge Properly

You should never store your fridge with the doors closed. When you get it to the unit (from a company like Falmouth Self Storage), be sure to place your fridge far enough away from furniture and boxes so that you can keep the doors open. Also, make sure there is no way that the doors may get shut accidentally. 

If you store your fridge properly, you shouldn't have any issues with mold or mildew when you move it into your new place. However, you will want to wipe down the interior again just to remove any dust that settled in it while it was in storage. If your fridge smells musty when you plug it in, allow it to run for several minutes with the door open. This will take care of any lingering odors. 

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