How to Clean Behind Your Fridge in 10 Easy Steps

Before pulling your fridge out from the wall, clear away all the pet treats, containers, food, and whatever else you’ve got stored up there. This might seem like an unnecessary extra step, but it’ll ensure nothing falls, breaks, or spills and creates a bigger mess. Plus, you’ll have a perfect opportunity to clean and degrease the top of your fridge, and go through the items before putting them back.

Once everything is cleared and ready to go, unplug your fridge from the wall outlet. Avoid opening the doors after doing so—this will help keep its contents cool until you’re finished.

Your fridge is a heavy appliance, but it’ll typically have hidden casters that make it easier to move. Try gripping both sides from the front and gently scooting it back and forth, slowly rocking it from side to side until it’s out far enough. Always move forward rather sideways to avoid damaging the floor covering or the refrigerator. If your arms aren’t quite long enough, start at one side of the fridge and gently pull it out. Switch sides as necessary until the entire surface underneath is exposed. You can also use furniture sliders to help move it more easily and prevent damage to your floor. Be sure not to place the fridge on top of the cord or the supply line for the ice maker (if it has one).

Your fridge’s grill or vent cover should have either Phillips or flathead screws securing it. Unscrew these and gently remove the cover. Then, thoroughly vacuum the cover and the condenser coils behind it.

Fill your spray bottle with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water. Use this to spray and wipe down your fridge, as well as the grill cover you removed. Once it’s clean, replace the cover. If needed, this is also a good time to deep clean your fridge on the front, top, and sides.

After your fridge is sparkling clean, spray down the walls behind it and wipe vigorously to clear any stuck-on messes. As a bonus, this will take care of mildew and mold spores as well.

Next, take your vacuum and suck up the remnants of whatever found its way beneath your fridge. For any large scraps and debris, sweep it up and toss it in the trash. If it’s been a while (or never) since you last cleaned, don’t worry about it—at least you’re doing something about it now.

You’re almost done! Now, mop the floor and surrounding area using the vinegar and water solution, or your preferred floor cleaner. Allow the area to fully dry before moving your fridge back.

Once you’re ready, plug the fridge back into the wall. Ensure everything is running and cooling as it should. Double check that the lines to your ice maker and water dispenser are securely connected and not coiled or kinked.

Finally, push the fridge back against the wall where it was. On top of the satisfaction, rest assured that you’ve helped improve your fridge’s energy efficiency and extended its life span as well. Help yourself to a cold snack or beverage to reward your hard work! Or, if you’re feeling extra productive, use this time to clean the inside of your fridge as well.