A Clean Chest Freezer, A Healthier Home: Tips from KIC

Step 1: Empty it Out and Defrost

Before anything else, switch off your chest freezer and take everything out. Place your frozen food in a cooler bag with ice to keep it frozen while you work. This is also the perfect opportunity to check expiry dates and discard anything that is freezer burned or past its prime, and to take note of what you actually have so that you can shop smarter going forward.

Allow the chest freezer to fully defrost before you begin cleaning. You can speed up the process by placing bowls of hot water inside and leaving the door open. Place towels around the base of the chest freezer to absorb any water as the ice melts.

Step 2: Remove and Soak any Removable Parts

If your chest freezer has any removable shelves, baskets or dividers, take them out and soak them in warm, soapy water for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help loosen any residue and make wiping them down much easier. Allow them to dry completely before placing them back inside.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Interior

Once the chest freezer has fully defrosted, use a clean cloth and a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, or a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, to wipe down the entire interior. Pay special attention to the corners and walls where bacteria and odours tend to build up. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools as these can damage the surfaces of your chest freezer.

Step 4: Clean the Door Seals

The rubber seals around your chest freezer door are often overlooked, but they play a critical role in keeping the cold air locked in. Dirt and mould build-up in the seals can affect the efficiency of your chest freezer and cause it to work harder than it should. Use a soft toothbrush dipped in a solution of warm water and bicarbonate of soda to gently scrub the seals clean.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Exterior

Don’t forget the outside of your chest freezer. Take a damp cloth and wipe down the exterior, handles and the top of the appliance. Handles in particular tend to harbour a lot of germs as they are touched multiple times.

Step 6: Restart, Reorganise and Restock

Once everything is clean and completely dry, switch your chest freezer back on and allow it to reach the correct temperature before restocking it. This is a great opportunity to reorganise more efficiently. Store items in clearly labelled, airtight containers or freezer bags, group similar items together so they are easy to find, and make sure older items are placed on the top so that they are used first.

How to Keep Your Chest Freezer Clean Going Forward

Cleaning your chest freezer does not have to be a dreaded chore if you stay on top of it regularly. Here are a few simple habits that will help you maintain a clean chest freezer:

• Wipe up any spills or drips immediately before they freeze and become difficult to remove.
• Do a quick check of your chest freezer once a month to remove any expired or freezer burned items.
• Make sure all food is stored in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent odours and freezer burn.
• Aim to do a thorough deep clean and defrost of your chest freezer every three to six months, or whenever ice build-up becomes noticeable.

At KIC, we are committed to making your life in the kitchen easier and more enjoyable. Our range of chest freezers is designed to keep your food preserved for longer, but a little regular maintenance goes a long way in ensuring that your appliance performs at its best for years to come.

For more tips and advice on caring for your KIC appliances, visit our website at: kIC or contact us via social media at: KIC_appliances.