How to Clean Refrigerator Gasket: A Simple Guide

Your refrigerator gasket is an attachment to your appliance; it is responsible for minimizing leakages thereby preserving the cool air inside the fridge and enhancing efficiency. Not only does the performance of the gasket get enhanced when cleaned often but the laid-down lifetime of the gasket is also realized. To prevent your refrigerator gasket from wearing out fast, follow these easy measures.

Why is Cleaning the Gasket Important?

Over time, gaskets can accumulate dirt, food residue, and even mould, which may weaken the seal. A faulty gasket lets cool air out, meaning your refrigerator has to work harder, and consequently, you are paying more for electricity. Effective cleaning will make your appliance function adequately and at the same time help to retain the quality of your food more than you expect.

The professional guide to cleaning your refrigerator gasket: A step-by-step approach.

Cleaning Solution Preparation

They are to take one quart of warm water and one tablespoon of baking soda. This solution is harmless, and efficient and assists in the eradication of different bad smells. However, a good option is to apply diluted dishwashing soap in water also.

Clean the Gasket

These steps will help you understand how to clean refrigerator gasket:

• Take a microfiber cloth or gently use a soft toothbrush moistened in the solution.
• Clean the gasket using a damp cloth in a circular motion without applying pressure on the corners or on parts with folds where black grime and mould are most likely to develop.
• Do not use any chemical reagents or metallic materials that are strong enough to harm rubber.
• Check the Seal
• As you clean, it is important to check the gasket area for signs of wear like cracks, any tears or a loose edge. To check the seal, try to shut the refrigerator door over a dollar and then pull the bill out. If the bill gives resistance, then the seal is good. While it is rare, should it slide out easily, then the gasket might need to be replaced.

Maintenance Tips

Maintaining the refrigerator gasket is as important as regularly cleaning it. Maintenance ensures that the gasket stays clean, and no bacteria form inside it. Here are some easy steps that you can note down to make sure of maintenance: 

• You should clean your gasket at least every 2-3 months for you to ensure it is in the right condition.
• Also, look for any damage during each cleaning.
• When the gasket appears to be worn, the cook should replace it as soon as possible.
• You may also consult with our other post on How to Clean Refrigerator, for the general cleanliness of your refrigerator.

Conclusion

It is very easy to maintain your refrigerator hence cleaning the gasket does no harm but rather benefits the refrigerator in various ways. Cleaning is done to eliminate chances of air leakages, conserve energy and keep your food in the right state. If you do this and check the seal every once in a while, you ensure that your refrigerator lasts longer and you minimize repair costs.