A clean freezer is not only vital for food safety, but it also helps keep your unit efficient. In this blog, we'll show you how to clean your compact freezer, using the 7.0 cu. ft. model with convenience features as an example. Whether you use it at home, in your dorm room, in your kitchen, or in your office to store breast milk, meat, aquatic products, or cold beverages, these steps will keep it looking its best.

Step 1: Prepare for Cleaning

It is vital to close the freezer before you begin. Locate the adjustable thermostat control on the freezer. Turn the thermostat to “0” (off) to stop refrigeration. This model has a 7-level adjustable temperature control ranging from 6.8°F to -7.6°F, with “1” being the low temperature and “7” being the coldest, but for cleaning purposes we need to turn off the power completely. After turning off the power, let the freezer sit for a while to allow the internal temperature to rise slightly.

Next, gather cleaning supplies. You'll need a sponge or soft cloth, mild detergent, warm water, baking soda solution (1/4 cup baking soda mixed with 1 quart warm water for deodorizing), a small brush (for hard-to-reach areas), and towels for drying.

Step 2: Empty the Freezer

Carefully remove all items from the freezer. Take this opportunity to check the shelf life of frozen items and discard any expired items. Since our example freezer comes with 3 hanging wire storage baskets, remove them as well. These baskets work well to keep smaller items organized and easily accessible, but they will need to be cleaned separately.

Step 3: Defrost the Freezer

If there is a large amount of ice buildup in the freezer, it's time to defrost. Open the freezer door. Our featured freezers have balanced hinged doors that stay open at a 45 to 90 degree angle, which makes the de-icing process very convenient. You can place a few towels in the bottom of the freezer to absorb the melted water. Avoid using sharp objects to chip the ice as this can damage the interior of the freezer.

Step 4: Clean the Interior

Once the ice has melted, mix a mild detergent with warm water. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe down the interior surfaces of the freezer, including the walls, bottom and door. Pay special attention to any spills or stains. For stubborn areas, use a small brush. After cleaning with soapy water, rinse the surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.

Then, scrub the interior again with a baking soda solution. Baking soda is great for removing odors and keeping your freezer fresh. Make sure to dry the interior thoroughly with a towel to prevent mold growth.

Step 5: Clean the Storage Baskets

Clean the 3 hanging wire storage baskets while drying the insides. Wash them in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and then air dry completely. Over time, these baskets can accumulate debris and spills, so a good cleaning will keep them in good working order and ensure that your small items stay clean.

Step 6: Clean the Exterior

Don't forget the exterior of the freezer! Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and neutral soap to remove dust, fingerprints or spills. After a quick wipe down, the smooth exterior of our compact freezers will look brand new.

Step 7: Reorganize and Restart

Once everything is clean and dry, it's time to put items back in the freezer. Reinstall the storage baskets and organize your frozen items in an orderly fashion. This is a great opportunity to optimize your storage space.

Finally, turn the freezer back on. Set the thermostat to your desired temperature. Remember, you have the option of 7 levels of temperature control to suit your needs. The green run light on this model will indicate that the unit is operating properly.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps step-by-step, you can keep your compact freezer clean, odor-free and running efficiently. This not only extends the life of your freezer, but also ensures that frozen items stay fresh and safe to eat. So roll up your sleeves and give your freezer a thorough cleaning!