Fridges can be tricky to store – and if you get it wrong, you might open the door months later to find mould, smells, or broken seals. Here’s how to prepare your fridge properly – and avoid common storage mistakes.
Why Prepare Your Fridge Before Storage
When storing your fridge, always make sure it is protected once placed into storage, they are prone to be damaged whilst sitting in storage, especially when shuffling items around or sorting through things. A fridge is quite an investment, so its worth spending the few minutes to ensure its stored correctly. I have seen fridges stored closed, wet and with things inside, and after a few months, it isn’t pretty.
How to Clean and Dry Your Fridge
Empty all food, both perishable and non perishable out of the fridge. Clean the inside with a damp cloth. If extra cleaning is required, shelves can be removed and washed in the kitchen sink with a mild dish soap, dried and replaced. Leave the door open to properly dry. Smaller or older fridges may require defrosting. Don’t forget to check the freezer compartments to ensure they are ice free and dry.
Leave Doors Open for Airflow
One your fridge is safely in storage, make sure to leave the doors, both fridge and freezer, ajar to allow air flow. Place a rolled towel or something similar over the top of the door so it cannot close accidently. This will ensure it remains mould free, and prevent the seal from sticking and damage if left long term.
Should You Store or Sell your Fridge?
As the homes we live in change, so have the spaces suitable for certain fridges. can also be difficult to fit into new spaces, especially if you are downsizing. Your 800L Samsung French Door Fridge may have taken pride of place in your large home, but if you are considering downsizing or moving into an apartment, it certainly wont be fitting into most smaller kitchens. It may be a far better option to sell it prior to storing, save money on storage costs, and buy a more appropriate model when it comes time to move into your new place.
Quick Checklist Before You Store
- Empty
- Clean and Dry
- Doors Open
- Protection in Place
- Consider Long-Term Costs
Store your fridge the right way, and it will clean and ready to use when you need it – no nasty surprises