After using your refrigerator for a while, black mold may appear on the rubber door seals. If this happens, you can follow the methods below to effectively remove it.

There are several reasons why refrigerator seals develop mold. Food particles or spills that fall into the seals, combined with accumulated dust and infrequent cleaning, create an ideal environment for mold to grow. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent mold from spreading and causing unpleasant odors.

How to Clean Mold from Refrigerator Seals

1. Cleaning with Vinegar
Mix water and vinegar in a 5:1 ratio, then optionally add a small amount of any household cleaning solution you have on hand.

Dip a toothbrush into the solution and scrub the refrigerator seal carefully to remove dirt and mold. After scrubbing, wipe the seals with a dry cloth to ensure they are completely clean. Vinegar not only removes mold but also has mild antibacterial properties, helping to keep the seal hygienic.

2. Cleaning with Baking Soda
You can create a cleaning mixture using baking soda combined with vinegar or fresh lemon juice. This combination is effective at removing stubborn dirt and mold. Wrap a cloth around a flat, hard object, like a card, to reach into the crevices of the seals more easily. Dip the cloth into the mixture and wipe the entire seal. Then, use a soft, damp cloth to remove any residue and ensure the seal is fully clean.

3. Cleaning with White Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol)
Rubbing alcohol is another effective way to clean refrigerator seals. Its disinfecting and deodorizing properties make it particularly suitable for this purpose. Simply soak a cloth in alcohol and wipe the seals thoroughly, focusing on areas with visible mold or dirt. Afterwards, wipe again with a damp cloth to remove any alcohol odor.

4. Using Specialized Mold Removers
For mold that has developed over a long time and is hard to remove, consider purchasing a specialized mold cleaning solution. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully. These products are highly effective on rubber materials like refrigerator seals and can eliminate persistent black mold that home remedies might not fully remove.

Safety Tips When Cleaning the Refrigerator

• Always unplug your refrigerator before cleaning.

• Remove all food items to make cleaning easier. For items that need to remain cold, prepare an insulated container with ice to temporarily store them during cleaning.

• Handle all cleaning solutions carefully, especially strong mold removers, and wear gloves if necessary.

Tips to Keep Your Refrigerator Clean and Fresh

1. Clean Regularly
Food spills in the fridge can cause dirt and odors. Regular cleaning helps maintain hygiene and prevents mold from forming.

2. Adjust the Temperature Properly
Set your refrigerator temperature based on its contents. When storing a lot of food, lower the temperature to ensure proper preservation. When storing fewer items or short-term storage, you can slightly raise the temperature to save electricity.

3. Use Food Before It Expires
Try to consume food before it spoils. Expired or spoiled items can cause mold, bad odors, and contamination, making the fridge unhygienic.

4. Organize and Separate Foods
Separate raw and cooked foods, as well as meats, vegetables, and ready-to-eat items. Keeping foods organized prevents cross-contamination and makes it easier to find and access items. Proper organization also helps maintain airflow inside the fridge, which keeps it cleaner and more efficient.

5. Additional Tips for Longevity

• Wipe down seals weekly with a damp cloth to prevent mold from forming.

• Store highly perishable foods in sealed containers to reduce moisture exposure on the rubber seals.

• Check the fridge for forgotten items regularly, as neglected spills can quickly turn into mold.

By following these steps, you can keep your refrigerator seals spotless and prevent black mold from returning, ensuring a cleaner, safer kitchen environment.