As the summer heat continues, your refrigerator’s ice maker is working overtime to keep food fresh. Often overlooked, this cold compartment can harbor unpleasant odors and even mold if neglected. Regular cleaning not only ensures fresher-tasting ice, but also extends the life of your appliance. Whether you have one of the best refrigerators or your trusty appliance has been with you for several summers, ice maker maintenance is essential.
Before you dive into the cleaning process, it's helpful to review tips for organizing your fridge, as proper food placement can prevent odors from spreading to your ice. Keep in mind that there are certain foods you should never put in the fridge, which can affect the overall freshness.
Now let's take a look at how to give your ice maker the deep cleaning it deserves, ensuring crisp, clean ice all summer long.
What you will need
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- Hot water
- Clean microfiber cloths or soft sponges
- An old toothbrush
- Bucket or large bowl
- Baking soda (optional)
- White vinegar (optional)
1. Empty the refrigerator
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Start by removing all items from your refrigerator and freezer. Throw away any expired products and Wipe all surfaces with warm, soapy waterThis step is crucial because odors can transfer between compartments, affecting your ice cream.
2. Turn off and prepare
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Turn off your refrigerator or unplug it from the power source. If your ice maker has a separate switch, turn it off as well. This ensures safety during cleaning and prevents the ice maker from activating while you are working. If you are concerned about food spoiling, transfer perishable items to a cooler. It is also a good idea to place towels at the bottom of your refrigerator to prevent spills from reaching your floor.
3. Remove and clean ice maker components
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Carefully remove the ice bin and all other detachable parts from your ice maker.Refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions, as designs vary. Hand wash these components with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge.Avoid using the dishwasher as this may damage the parts.
4. Clean the exterior and interior of the ice maker
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Using a solution of mild soap and warm water, clean all exposed surfaces of the ice maker. For stubborn ice buildup, use a warm, damp cloth to gently dislodge it. An old toothbrush can be useful for reaching into difficult corners or tackling particularly dirty areas. Be sure to consult your manual before using vinegar or other cleaning products.
5. Disinfect thoroughly
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For extra freshness, remember to disinfect the ice maker. Mix a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Wipe down all surfaces with this mixture, then make sure to rinse well with clean water and dry completely, as you don't want this mixture to end up in your food or drinks.
6. Replace the water filter
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If your refrigerator has a water filter, now is a great time to replace it.. A new filter ensures better tasting ice and improved ice maker performance. Try to replace the filter every six months, depending on your ice maker's cleaning schedule.
7. Reassemble and restart
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Once everything is clean and dry, Carefully replace all components you removed, including the ice bin. Check that everything is in place. Plug your refrigerator back in or turn it on and turn on the ice maker if it has a separate control. At this point, you can also put your food back in your refrigerator.
8. Purge the system
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Let the ice maker run for a few cycles, discarding the first 2 or 3 batches of ice cubes. This helps eliminate lingering tastes and odors resulting from the cleaning process.
9. Maintain cleanliness
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Make a habit of removing old ice and wiping down surfaces every week. Plan to repeat this deep cleaning process every six months, or more frequently if you use your ice maker heavily or notice odors or discoloration.
Keeping your ice maker clean ensures refreshing summer drinks. For more cooling options, check out Ninja’s Frozen Drink Maker that can turn any beverage into a slushy. Wondering how often you should clean your fridge? Here’s what the experts say. And don’t forget to stay cool during a heat wave with these 9 essential tips.