Kitchen Refrigerator Cleaning Tips (feat. Expert)

No matter how diligently you clean, there are surprisingly many germs lurking in the kitchen. From the sink and refrigerator to dishcloths and spice jars... food poisoning-causing bacteria are also found quite frequently. Use the thorough cleaning methods presented by cleaning experts to eliminate hidden germs without mercy.

Refrigerator, the #1 Germ Hiding Spot

Since the refrigerator stores many ingredients and food items, it is a vulnerable space for bacterial growth. However, cleaning it can be cumbersome, so it's often left untouched. Pay attention to the 3 places in the refrigerator where germs are most likely to hide.

1. Refrigerator Handle

The refrigerator handle, touched dozens of times a day by various people... We usually don't wash our hands before touching it. As a result, dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Norovirus can thrive there. It is best to wipe down the refrigerator handle frequently with alcohol, soapy water, or vinegar water.

2. Ice Tray

If the ice tray isn't cleaned regularly, bacterial growth is a concern. Listeria monocytogenes is incredibly resilient, surviving even at -20°C, making it able to live in ice.

If you consume Listeria that multiplies as the ice melts, it can lead to food poisoning or meningitis... To prevent this, soak the ice tray in tap water for at least 2 minutes and then rinse with water, or soak it in vinegar water for 20 minutes before cleaning.

3. Meat/Vegetable Compartment

Various harmful bacteria habitat According to an NSF survey, the meat/vegetable compartment is also home to a plethora of E. coli and Salmonella. It is recommended to clean it at least once a week using a neutral detergent or baking soda dissolved in water.

Baking soda is excellent at attracting and destroying bacterial cell membranes, making it a powerful disinfectant. Maintaining a refrigerator temperature below 5°C can also inhibit bacterial growth.

Dishcloths and Sponges are Germy; Sanitization is a Must!

Dishcloths and sponges are also prone to bacterial growth due to leftover food particles and constantly damp conditions. E. coli and Salmonella bacteria also thrive in these environments. It is best to replace dishcloths monthly and sponges every 1-2 weeks.

For sanitization, microwaving a dishcloth for over 2 minutes can kill 99% of bacteria. However, steel wool can spark due to microwaves, so it's best to boil it for 10 minutes or soak it in bleach water for about 5 minutes. For acrylic dishcloths, clean them with a solution of baking soda, vinegar, and water in a 1:1:1 ratio.

Spice Jars: Store in Smaller Containers

Spice jars can also be breeding grounds for bacteria... Since they are often touched with unwashed hands after handling food, cross-contamination can occur. Especially when spices are stored in large containers, moisture can build up, promoting bacterial growth.

Therefore, it is advisable to store spices in smaller containers and clean them frequently using warm water and neutral detergent.

The kitchen is the front line in the battle against germs that threaten family health. By meticulously checking for hidden germ hotspots and maintaining cleanliness through timely cleaning and disinfection, you can ensure safe eating habits. With just a little attention, your small kitchen can transform into a healthy space.