How to Defrost a Mini Fridge

Perfect for a college dorm or rec room, mini fridges offer great overall functionality, conveniences, and flexibility with enough space for several cold beverages and quick, go-to snacks. Properly maintaining these miniature refrigerators entails cleaning up spills and discarding expired products as soon as possible in order to avoid bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. As a result, routine maintenance before departing for vacation should also include defrosting the mini fridge. But fear not, due to its compact size, such a task can take little to no effort on your part.

                Things You Will Need

  • Towels
  • Nonabrasive Cleaning Supplies
  • Rags
  1. Remove all items from inside the mini fridge, including any food from the freezer compartment. Place non-expired goods in a refrigerator and freezer while cleaning the mini fridge. Discard any expired or foul-smelling items.
  2. Unplug the mini fridge. If possible, move the mini fridge to an area where the floors will not be damaged by dripping water. Lay a thick towel in the interior bottom of the mini fridge to absorb water. Ensure the towel extends across the front exterior of the appliance to catch any dripping water.
  3. Allow the mini fridge to defrost overnight with the doors open.
  4. Wipe the moisture off all surfaces of the mini fridge in the morning. Remove any stains and odors from inside the fridge, using warm, soapy water. Clean all shelves, trays and racks within the mini fridge. Carefully wipe the mini fridge of any cleaning agent, using a damp rag. Do not use any abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that could scratch the surfaces of the mini fridge. Allow the unit to air dry completely.
  5. Upon your return, plug in the mini fridge, then restock all your drinks and snacks into the appliance once the temperature has cooled inside. Adjust the temperature setting on the mini fridge to an appropriate level for your food.

Helpful Tips

  • Dust accumulates quickly, so save the life on your mini fridge and its compressor by ensuring the area remains dust-free. Remember to leave space on all sides of the mini fridge to painlessly slide it out during cleaning.
  • Defrost your mini fridge about every three months and at least 24 hours before leaving on a trip lasting a week in length or longer.
  • Keep an open box of baking soda in your mini fridge to absorb odors.
  • If your mini fridge has an automatic defrost setting, there is no need to unplug the appliance. Refer to the user manual for details about how to follow through with this setting.
  • If you’re planning on long-term storage of your mini fridge after defrosting, ensure the interior is completely dry to prevent mold growth and the compressor isn’t exposed to dust build up. Also remember to keep the mini fridge upright at all times.