How to Clean Mold from Refrigerator

Mold in your refrigerator isn’t just unsightly, it’s also a health hazard. Whether it’s black mold creeping along the fridge gasket or a musty odor every time you open the door, it’s a clear sign that deep cleaning is overdue. In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to clean mold from your refrigerator, prevent it from coming back, and keep your fridge fresh and hygienic.

Why Mold Grows in Refrigerators

Mold thrives in moist, dark environments—making your refrigerator an ideal breeding ground, especially when spills, expired food, or condensation are left unchecked. Common culprits include:

• Forgotten leftovers
• Leaky containers
• Poor air circulation
• Dirty refrigerator gaskets and seals

When mold develops inside your fridge, it can contaminate your food and impact your family’s health. That’s why cleaning mold from your refrigerator promptly is essential.  For general cleaning tips, explore our guide on 8 Steps to Clean Your Refrigerator.

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following items to effectively remove mold from your fridge:

• Rubber gloves and mask
• White vinegar or baking soda
• Mild dish soap
• Warm water
• Soft scrub brush or sponge
• Old toothbrush (for corners and gaskets)
• Microfiber cloths or paper towels
• Garbage bags (for spoiled food)

5 Steps to Clean Mold from Your Refrigerator

Mold in your refrigerator isn’t just unpleasant—it can also pose health risks and affect the freshness of your food. Whether it’s from leftover spills or unnoticed expired items, mold can grow quickly in moist, enclosed spaces. Fortunately, with a few simple steps and some basic cleaning supplies, you can eliminate mold safely and restore a clean, fresh environment inside your fridge.

To clean mold from a refrigerator, unplug the unit and remove all food and shelves. Scrub the interior with a solution of white vinegar or baking soda, and for stubborn spots on the rubber seal, use a solution of one tablespoon of bleach per quart of water. Rinse all surfaces, let them dry completely, and put everything back.

Here’s how to do it effectively in just 5 steps.

Step 1: Unplug and Empty the Refrigerator

Safety first—unplug your fridge to avoid electric shock. Remove all food items, drawers, and shelves. Dispose of any moldy or expired food in sealed garbage bags. Unplug the appliance and empty all food and removable parts like shelves and drawers. Allow the refrigerator to come to room temperature before cleaning. Use gloves and consider wearing a mask, especially if using bleach, as mold can cause respiratory irritation.

Step 2: Soak Removable Parts

Place all removable shelves, trays, and drawers in warm soapy water. Add a cup of white vinegar or baking soda for extra mold-fighting power. Let them soak while you clean the fridge interior.

Step 3: Clean the Interior

Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water, or mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 quart of warm water. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the inside walls, back panel, and floor of the refrigerator, focusing on mold-prone areas.

For non-porous surfaces, use a solution of white vinegar or a baking soda paste to scrub away the mold. You can also spray undiluted white vinegar directly on the moldy spots, let it sit for a few minutes to kill the mold, then scrub and wipe clean. If you’re sensitive to bleach or prefer a more natural approach, stick with undiluted white vinegar—it’s safe, effective, and works well for cleaning every nook and crevice of your fridge.

Step 4: Scrub Refrigerator Gaskets

The rubber door seals are mold magnets, often trapping moisture and food particles. Use an old toothbrush dipped in a vinegar or baking soda solution to scrub these folds thoroughly. For tougher mold buildup, mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 quart of water and use it to gently scrub the rubber seal. After cleaning, wipe the area down with a damp cloth to remove any residue, then dry it completely to prevent future mold growth.

Step 5: Dry and Reassemble

After scrubbing, wipe down all surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the interior, and let all removable parts air dry completely. Leaving the refrigerator door slightly open for a while can help air circulate and ensure everything dries thoroughly.

Once dry, place the clean shelves and drawers back into the fridge. Before returning your food, wipe down all containers with hot, soapy water to avoid reintroducing mold or bacteria. Finally, plug the refrigerator back in and enjoy your fresh, clean fridge.

Natural Mold Cleaners: Vinegar vs. Baking Soda

Both white vinegar and baking soda are safe, natural alternatives to harsh chemical cleaners. Vinegar is acidic and kills 82% of mold species, while baking soda is alkaline and deodorizes your fridge. Using a combination of both is often the most effective way to clean mold in your refrigerator without leaving toxic residues.

For areas like the ice maker, which can also harbor mold, follow our guide on How to Clean the Refrigerator Ice Maker.

How to Sanitize Your Refrigerator After Mold Removal

After removing mold, it’s crucial to sanitize your refrigerator to eliminate any remaining bacteria or mold spores. Use a clean cloth soaked in a vinegar solution or a food-safe sanitizer to wipe down all surfaces. For full instructions, check out our post on How to Sanitize Refrigerator.

Tips to Prevent Mold in the Refrigerator

Keeping your refrigerator mold-free is easy with a few simple habits:

• Wipe spills immediately
• Keep the temperature below 40°F (4°C)
• Check and remove expired items weekly
• Wipe gaskets monthly
• Improve air circulation with proper food storage
• Place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb moisture and odor

When to Call a Professional

If you notice recurring mold, persistent odors, or mold spreading behind the fridge or inside vents, it may be time to consult a mold remediation specialist. Mold in insulation or behind panels requires expert treatment.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to clean mold from a refrigerator, regular maintenance and timely deep cleans will help you avoid future problems. A clean fridge not only looks and smells better, it also protects your food and your family’s health.