A practical guide to understanding the dangers of not cleaning your appliance properly and in a timely manner; how to preserve food A refrigerator in ideal hygienic conditions is not only crucial for effectively extending the shelf life of perishable foods, but, even more importantly, it is a fundamental barrier in the prevention of various diseases. Poor cleaning of this appliance, particularly with the arrival of high temperatures, can create an environment conducive to the proliferation of bacteria and other microorganisms. How to clean your refrigerator properly? This lack of hygiene can trigger serious health consequences, with diseases as worrying as food poisoning, cases of meningitis or even kidney failure, all of which are potentially linked to the presence of pathogenic microorganisms that find an ideal breeding ground inside a poorly maintained refrigerator. The lack of regular and thorough cleaning is, in this context, a risk factor that is magnified by heat.
Practical guide to organising your refrigerator
To ensure the freshness and safety of products, the use of airtight containers is essential. It is recommended to store food in glass or plastic containers with airtight lids or vacuum containers. This practice not only prevents the release of unwanted odours that could permeate other foods, but also contributes significantly to prolonging the freshness and shelf life of products.
In the case of liquids or sauces, glass jars are the most suitable option. Covering food properly with cling film or aluminium foil is also an effective measure to prevent aromas from spreading inside the refrigerator, especially during the summer, when odours can
Frequent cleaning and organisation are essential pillars for the proper functioning of an appliance. An unpleasant odour inside the refrigerator is a clear warning sign, as it indicates the possible presence of rotting food or an accumulation of waste that needs to be dealt with.
In these cases, it is advisable to carry out a thorough general cleaning at least once a month, which includes meticulously checking the expiry dates of all products and reorganising their location to maintain order and facilitate access, avoiding cross-contamination. Even if food is within its expiry date, it can be contaminated by contact with dirty surfaces or cross-contamination, hence the recommendation to use vacuum-sealed bags.
When faced with bad odours, there are natural solutions that complement deep cleaning. A homemade mixture of baking soda, water and vinegar can be applied to clean the interior surfaces of the refrigerator, as it acts as a powerful deodoriser and disinfectant.
In addition, placing an open container of baking soda, ground coffee or activated charcoal inside the refrigerator helps to continuously absorb environmental odours.
However, it is crucial to understand that these solutions do not, under any circumstances, replace the need for periodic thorough cleaning or the systematic use of suitable containers for food storage.