With Australia bracing for another scorching summer, your refrigerator is about to become your most crucial ally in the fight against food poisoning. But here's the confronting reality: around 4.1 million Australians fall victim to food poisoning each year, with over 47,900 requiring hospitalisation.
The stakes are particularly high for Australians over 60. Medical experts warn that elderly people face greater risks of severe illness from food poisoning, with symptoms that can lead to dangerous dehydration.
As temperatures soar and that forgotten avocado lurking in your crisper drawer transforms into a bacterial breeding ground, a thorough fridge clean isn't just about organisation—it's about protecting your health.
Why your fridge needs urgent attention
Food poisoning affects over 4.7 million Australians annually, yet many cases are easily preventable. The problem intensifies during summer when those neglected items at the back of your fridge can become a genuine health hazard.
'When you have warm environments, people are more likely to be more susceptible to gastroenteritis'
The danger zone for bacterial growth sits between 5°C and 60°C, making proper refrigerator maintenance critical. Recent research from Food Standards Australia New Zealand found fewer than half of over 2,000 respondents followed proper food-handling procedures, highlighting a widespread knowledge gap that puts Australian households at risk.
Understanding the date dilemma
Before diving into your fridge clean-out, you need to understand the crucial difference between 'Best Before' and 'Use By' dates—a distinction that prevents unnecessary food waste while keeping you safe.
Date Label Decoder
'Use By' means the food must be consumed by that date for safety reasons. After this date, harmful bacteria may have grown to dangerous levels.
'Best Before' relates to food quality, not safety. Food past this date might taste different but is generally safe to eat if stored properly.
Pro tip: Rotate your stock by placing newer items at the back and using older ones first.
Your step-by-step summer cleaning guide
Timing your deep clean strategically makes the job easier. Plan your fridge cleaning before your weekly shop when there will be fewer items to remove.
Getting started safely
Place perishables like dairy and meat in a refrigerated cooler bag with ice to keep them safe during cleaning. For longer cleaning sessions, consider unplugging your appliance to save electricity, though this isn't necessary if you can work quickly with removable shelves.
The cleaning process
Step 1: Empty and sort
Remove everything from your fridge, including condiments from door compartments. Use this opportunity to bin any food past its expiry date and wipe down the exterior of jars and bottles to remove sticky drips.
Step 2: Remove components
Take out removable shelves and drawers, letting glass components warm to room temperature before washing to avoid cracking. Glass shelves are heavy, so use both hands when removing them to avoid accidents.
Step 3: Wash components
Wash shelves and drawers in hot soapy water. For easier handling, use your laundry sink if possible, and dry thoroughly with a microfibre cloth to prevent scratches.
Safe cleaning products for your fridge interior
- Warm soapy water (safest option)
- 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water for stubborn stains
- Baking soda paste for tough, stuck-on spills
- Never use: Bleach, harsh chemicals, or abrasive cleaners inside food areas
Step 4: Clean the interior
Use soapy water and a soft cleaning cloth to wipe down the interior, or try a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water for stubborn odours. Avoid using bleach inside the fridge as it can compromise food safety.
Don't forget the door seals
Clean door seals at least every three months, pushing the folds apart to check for mould. If you find mould, spray cleaning vinegar on the rubber seal, let it sit for an hour, then wipe clean.
Banishing persistent odours
Even after removing spoiled food, lingering smells can persist. Try placing chunks of charcoal, a container of baking soda, or a saucer of freshly ground coffee in your clean fridge to neutralise odours naturally.
Beyond the basic clean
Regular maintenance prevents major problems. Clean your refrigerator at least every three months, and definitely before major events when you'll need extra space.
Don't neglect the space behind your fridge—it's a magnet for dust and debris that can lead to mould or attract pests while causing bad odours. Every three months, carefully move your fridge and vacuum the coils and surrounding area.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Undeclared allergens are the primary reason for food recalls in Australia, accounting for 213 recalls between 2020 and 2024. Always check labels carefully, especially if you have grandchildren with food allergies visiting.
Seasonal considerations for summer
As Australia heads into what's predicted to be a hotter-than-average summer, your fridge will work harder to maintain safe temperatures. Check internal temperatures with a thermometer and adjust controls to compensate for changes in ambient temperature, especially important for older fridges that don't adjust well to seasonal changes.
Example Scenario
- Margaret from Brisbane noticed her electricity bill spiking last summer. After cleaning behind her 12-year-old fridge and removing years of dust from the coils, she saw her energy usage drop noticeably. 'The fridge wasn't working as hard to stay cool,' she explains. A simple maintenance task that took 30 minutes saved her money all season long.
Energy efficiency bonus
A clean fridge isn't just safer—it's more economical. A clean fridge operates more efficiently, maintaining the right temperature for optimal food storage. Dusty coils force your appliance to work harder, driving up energy costs at a time when many Australian seniors are watching every dollar.
Making it manageable
For seniors, the prospect of a complete fridge overhaul might seem daunting. Break the task into smaller segments—perhaps tackle one shelf per day, or clean components while watching your favourite morning program. Consider timing your clean before grocery shopping when your fridge naturally has fewer items.
If mobility is a concern, some commercial cleaning services now offer appliance cleaning specifically for seniors. Professional fridge cleaning services will remove all items safely, defrost if necessary, and clean all components while you relax.
The health investment
With food poisoning costing the Australian economy $3 billion annually, prevention makes both health and economic sense. For seniors, the consequences of foodborne illness can be particularly severe, making this simple maintenance task a crucial investment in your wellbeing.
Remember, a clean fridge contributes to better food safety, eliminates unpleasant odours, and can even help reduce food waste by making it easier to see what you have. You'll find meal preparation less stressful when you can easily locate ingredients and avoid the frustration of forgotten items hidden in clutter.
What This Means For You
As we head into the warmer months, your refrigerator deserves the same attention you'd give any essential household equipment. A few hours spent on this important task could save you from days of illness and medical expenses.
Have you discovered any clever fridge cleaning tricks over the years, or do you have questions about maintaining your appliance as it ages? Share your experiences and tips with fellow community members in the comments below.
Original Article
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge-ahead-of-summer/521ho9ztx
Food poisoning | NSW Food Authority
Cited text: It is quite common, with around 4.68 million cases in Australia each year.
Excerpt: around 4.1 million Australians fall victim to food poisoning each year, with over 47,900 requiring hospitalisation
https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/food-poisoning
Food Poisoning (Foodborne Illness) | Ausmed
Cited text: Food poisoning is estimated to affect over 4.7 million Australians every year, resulting in about 47,900 hospitalisations and 38 deaths annually (FSAN...
Excerpt: around 4.1 million Australians fall victim to food poisoning each year, with over 47,900 requiring hospitalisation
https://www.ausmed.com.au/learn/articles/food-poisoning
Food poisoning | NSW Food Authority
Cited text: But contact a doctor if: symptoms persists for more than 3 days or are very severe ... the person is at risk of dehydration such as infants and the el...
Excerpt: Medical experts warn that elderly people face greater risks of severe illness from food poisoning, with symptoms that can lead to dangerous dehydration
https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/food-poisoning
Foodborne disease outbreaks | Queensland Health
Cited text: Anyone can be affected by food poisoning, but certain people are at greater risk for severe illness and include pregnant women, young children, older ...
Excerpt: Medical experts warn that elderly people face greater risks of severe illness from food poisoning, with symptoms that can lead to dangerous dehydration
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clini...seases-infection/diseases/foodborne/outbreaks
How to deep clean your fridge ahead of summer | SBS News
Cited text: Those neglected items at the back of your fridge can become a health hazard.
Excerpt: those neglected items at the back of your fridge can become a genuine health hazard
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge-ahead-of-summer/521ho9ztx
How to deep clean your fridge ahead of summer | SBS News
Cited text: Last year, Food Standards Australia New Zealand found fewer than half of over 2,000 respondents followed proper food-handling procedures while cooking...
Excerpt: Recent research from Food Standards Australia New Zealand found fewer than half of over 2,000 respondents followed proper food-handling procedures
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge-ahead-of-summer/521ho9ztx
Fridge cleaning tips that work | Blogs
Cited text: Cleaning products including baking soda, dishwashing soap, fridge cleaner & deodoriser and stainless steel polish · A handy tip is to plan your deep f...
Excerpt: Plan your fridge cleaning before your weekly shop when there will be fewer items to remove
https://www.statewideapp.com.au/blogs/fridge-cleaning-tips-that-work/
Fridge cleaning tips that work | Blogs
Cited text: Before you start, place perishables such as dairy and meat in a refrigerated cooler bag with ice. This will keep them cool.
Excerpt: Place perishables like dairy and meat in a refrigerated cooler bag with ice to keep them safe during cleaning
https://www.statewideapp.com.au/blogs/fridge-cleaning-tips-that-work/
How to Clean a Refrigerator in 4 Simple Steps | Whirlpool
Cited text: When you start deep cleaning the inside of your refrigerator, turn off the power via the electrical panel or by unplugging your appliance.
Excerpt: unplugging your appliance to save electricity, though this isn't necessary if you can work quickly with removable shelves
https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator.html
How to Clean a Refrigerator—The Home Depot
Cited text: Nevertheless, keeping the fridge open for long periods of time can waste electricity, and it’s safer to have the fridge unplugged when dusting the coi...
Excerpt: unplugging your appliance to save electricity, though this isn't necessary if you can work quickly with removable shelves
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90121f10fb9
Fridge cleaning tips that work | Blogs
Cited text: Grab your garbage bag and bin any food or condiments that have passed their expiry date. Wipe down the exterior of jars and bottles to remove any stic...
Excerpt: Use this opportunity to bin any food past its expiry date and wipe down the exterior of jars and bottles to remove sticky drips
https://www.statewideapp.com.au/blogs/fridge-cleaning-tips-that-work/
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: Empty the fridge of all food—use an esky or insulated cold bag to keep perishables such as deli and dairy products chilled—then remove the shelves...
Excerpt: Take out removable shelves and drawers, letting glass components warm to room temperature before washing to avoid cracking
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How to Clean a Refrigerator in 7 Steps | KitchenAid
Cited text: IMPORTANT: Glass shelves and covers are heavy. Be careful, and use both hands when removing these items to avoid dropping them.
Excerpt: Glass shelves are heavy, so use both hands when removing them to avoid accidents
https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/major-appliances/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator.html
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: Let the glass warm to room temperature (to avoid cracking), then wash in hot soapy water.
Excerpt: Wash shelves and drawers in hot soapy water
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How To Clean Your Fridge
Cited text: Carefully remove and wash them using warm, soapy water (if it’s an option, it might be easier to wash them in your laundry sink). Wipe them down with ...
Excerpt: For easier handling, use your laundry sink if possible, and dry thoroughly with a microfibre cloth to prevent scratches
https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/whats-new/how-to-clean-fridge
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: Use soapy water and a soft cleaning cloth to wipe down the fridge interior or try a 1:1 mix of cleaning or white vinegar and water if the fridge is a ...
Excerpt: Use soapy water and a soft cleaning cloth to wipe down the interior, or try a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water for stubborn odours.
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: Give the door seals a clean at least every three months, says Toby. Push the folds apart and check for mould.
Excerpt: Clean door seals at least every three months, pushing the folds apart to check for mould
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: If present, put cleaning vinegar in a spray bottle and saturate the rubber seal. “Let the vinegar sit for around an hour, then wipe off the solution,”...
Excerpt: spray cleaning vinegar on the rubber seal, let it sit for an hour, then wipe clean
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: Getting rid of spoiled food should be enough to eliminate bad smells, but if the fridge is still stinky Toby says there are a few tricks: “You can use...
Excerpt: Try placing chunks of charcoal, a container of baking soda, or a saucer of freshly ground coffee in your clean fridge
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
How to Clean a Refrigerator—The Home Depot
Cited text: Tip: Plan on cleaning a refrigerator at least every three months, and definitely before major holidays like Thanksgiving to make room for the extra in...
Excerpt: Clean your refrigerator at least every three months, and definitely before major events when you'll need extra space
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90121f10fb9
How To Deep Clean Your Fridge—Bunnings Australia
Cited text: The space behind your fridge is a magnet for dust, debris and worse, so it’s a good idea to clean behind your fridge every three months (or if somethi...
Excerpt: Don't neglect the space behind your fridge—it's a magnet for dust and debris that can lead to mould or attract pests while causing bad odours
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/diy-skills/cleaning/how-to-deep-clean-your-fridge
Australian food recall statistics | Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Cited text: · Undeclared allergens continue to be the primary reason for food recalls in Australia. From 2020 to 2024, there were 213 food recalls due to Undeclar...
Excerpt: Undeclared allergens are the primary reason for food recalls in Australia, accounting for 213 recalls between 2020 and 2024
https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/food-recalls/recallstats
How to clean your fridge | CHOICE
Cited text: · Check internal temperatures with a thermometer and adjust the controls to compensate for changes in ambient temperature. This is especially importan...
Excerpt: Check internal temperatures with a thermometer and adjust controls to compensate for changes in ambient temperature, especially important for older fridges that don't adjust well to seasonal changes
https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-...rticles/how-to-clean-and-maintain-your-fridge
How To Clean Your Fridge
Cited text: Efficient Operation—A clean fridge operates more efficiently, maintaining the right temperature for optimal food storage.
Excerpt: A clean fridge operates more efficiently, maintaining the right temperature for optimal food storage
https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/whats-new/how-to-clean-fridge
How to Clean a Refrigerator in 4 Simple Steps | Whirlpool
Cited text: Another tip is to clean your refrigerator before you go shopping when there are fewer groceries in your fridge.
Excerpt: Consider timing your clean before grocery shopping when your fridge naturally has fewer items
https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-clean-a-refrigerator.html
10+ Best Rated Fridge Cleaners in Sydney | Airtasker AU
Cited text: Your fridge cleaning service will depend on what parts of your fridge need cleaning, and if your fridge includes a freezer and/or ice dispenser. Here’...
Excerpt: Professional fridge cleaning services will remove all items safely, defrost if necessary, and clean all components while you relax
https://www.airtasker.com/au/services/fridge-cleaning/sydney/
foodsafety.asn.au Food Safety at Your Finger Tips—Food Safety Information Council Ltd
Cited text: We aim to reduce the estimated 4.67 million cases of food poisoning in Australia each year that result in 47,900 hospitalisations, 38 deaths and a cos...
Excerpt: With food poisoning costing the Australian economy $3 billion annually
https://www.foodsafety.asn.au/
How To Clean Your Fridge
Cited text: Stress-Free Meal Prep—Easily locate ingredients, avoid the frustration of forgotten items hidden in clutter, and make shopping for new groceries eas...
Excerpt: You'll find meal preparation less stressful when you can easily locate ingredients and avoid the frustration of forgotten items hidden in clutter
https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/whats-new/how-to-clean-fridge
