Tackle Fridge Odours with Simple £1 Solutions This January

As the festive season concludes, many households are turning their attention to cleaning and maintaining kitchen appliances, particularly refrigerators. With fridges packed to capacity with leftovers and party food during Christmas, they often require a thorough reset in January to ensure optimal performance throughout the year.

According to appliance experts, neglecting routine maintenance can not only hamper performance but also lead to increased energy costs and expensive repairs. Salah Sun, Head of Product Management at Beko UK, emphasizes that fridges experience significant strain during the holiday season. By January, it is common for shelves to become sticky, seals to clog, and unpleasant odours to linger.

To combat these issues, Sun recommends a straightforward cleaning method. A mixture of distilled vinegar and water—costing less than £0.50 to prepare—can effectively wipe away spills and grime. For lingering smells, placing an open container of baking soda inside the fridge is a cost-effective solution, priced around £1, which can neutralize odours for months.

Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial as well. Fridges should be kept at or below 5°C to limit bacterial growth, but Sun cautions that temperature management alone is insufficient. He advises consumers to empty their fridges, check use-by dates, and clean shelves thoroughly with warm, soapy water.

Often overlooked, door seals can accumulate crumbs and residue, which may prevent proper closure and hinder efficiency. “This small step massively reduces cross-contamination and helps the fridge run smoothly for the year ahead,” Sun stated.

Organizing food properly is another essential aspect of appliance maintenance. Raw meat and fish should always be stored on the bottom shelf to prevent drips from contaminating other food items, while ready-to-eat foods are best placed higher up.

Sun warns that poorly maintained appliances tend to work harder, which can lead to increased running costs. “Appliances clogged with grease, food debris, or detergent residue use more energy to do the same job,” he explained. Repair costs for neglected washing machines or dishwashers can range from £50 to £150.

Beyond financial implications, there are health risks associated with neglecting appliance cleanliness. “A fridge that hasn’t been cleaned properly can harbour bacteria like Listeria, while a washing machine with a damp drum can encourage mould,” Sun added.

A January reset not only enhances appliance performance but also contributes to a healthier home environment. By adopting a few low-cost cleaning strategies and implementing better organization, households can improve appliance efficiency, reduce energy costs, and maintain a fresher kitchen long after the holiday season has ended.