My compact refrigerator in a tiny kitchen is often packed with ingredients, making cleanliness vital for both hygiene and odor control.
When cleaning a refrigerator, tackling odors and sticky stains is my main focus. After discovering a technique online that used vanilla essence, I was curious how such a sweet ingredient could effectively tackle stubborn residues from condiment bottles.
Determined to try it out, here's how my experience unfolded.
Vanilla Vinegar Cleaning Solution
I initially spotted this hack on an Australian influencer's Instagram page. This eco-friendly homemade cleaner combines vinegar to dissolve sticky spots and vanilla to leave a pleasant aroma in the fridge, all while being safe for food storage.
A post shared by the influencer
A photo posted by on
You Will Need:
- ½ cup of distilled white vinegar – like this option on Amazon
- 2-3 teaspoons of vanilla extract, either clear or brown – available at Walmart
- 1 cup of plain water
- A microfiber cloth – like these from Amazon
- A clean dish towel – such as these from Walmart
- A clean spray bottle – like this set of two from Amazon
Preparing the Solution
Creating the cleaning solution was straightforward; just mix the ingredients in a clean spray bottle, secure the lid, and shake well.
Interestingly, I opted for brown vanilla extract instead of clear, which I found less frequently in stores. To keep costs down, I was eager to see how this change would affect the cleaning result.
The mixture appeared rather muddy, but I proceeded with my cleaning endeavor.
Cleaning My Refrigerator
Before cleaning, I removed all items from the fridge, placing those I intended to keep on the counters. As with general kitchen cleaning, I simply sprayed the solution on the shelves and wiped them down with a microfiber cloth.
I noticed that due to the solution's high water content and the cold environment, it could bead or streak. A light spray sufficed for small areas. Fortunately, it effectively dissolved some sticky spots I'd been neglecting all week.
Surprisingly, the sharp vinegar odor typical of cleaning with vinegar was minimal. The combination of water and vanilla successfully masked the strong scent that usually deters me from using white vinegar.
After wiping down the shelves, I used a dry dish towel to ensure they were streak-free and absorbed any excess moisture.
With some cleaner leftover, I decided to also wipe down my washing machine. Residing in the kitchen, it tends to gather grease and dust, so I thought this cleaner would work perfectly. To my delight, it not only removed grease but also picked up dust easily and left the front-loading door sparkling after buffing it dry.
Final Thoughts
This mixture did a commendable job of deodorizing and cleaning both my refrigerator and washing machine front. However, I felt the vanilla fragrance could have been stronger. While it added a hint of sweetness to the vinegar, the scent faded after drying.
If I make this spray again, I'll add another teaspoon or two of vanilla extract or consider using Vanilla Bean Scented Oil from Amazon to achieve a stronger aroma.
Overall, this cleaner effectively freshens your fridge and makes cleaning enjoyable, though don't expect the vanilla scent to linger. For persistent fridge odors, consider using rolled oats as a simple, budget-friendly deodorizer.
Common Questions
Is vinegar a good cleaning agent for fridges?
Absolutely! Vinegar's acidity helps break down grease and sticky stains, while also killing mold and bacteria, making it a safe choice for food storage areas like fridges and pantries.
What cleaning products should be avoided in fridges?
It's best to steer clear of abrasive or harsh cleaners like bleach, as they may damage glass shelves or plastic parts. Instead, opt for natural cleaners like vinegar or baking soda to tackle sticky residues effectively.
