Mold Might Be Hiding in Your Fridge—Here’s Where to Look
Your fridge might look clean on the outside, but hidden mold is a problem more common than you'd think. Even if you don’t smell it, it could still be there—and growing fast.
Why Mold Forms in Your Fridge
Refrigerators are cool and moist, which makes them ideal for mold growth. Even though it's cold, mold doesn’t die in low temperatures. It just grows slower. Spills, forgotten leftovers, and condensation create perfect hiding spots.
Where Mold Loves to Hide
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Behind the crisper drawers
Spilled juice or produce rot often collects under and behind the drawers. -
Door seals and gaskets
Mold hides in the folds of the rubber, especially if condensation builds up. -
Under the shelves
Even a small spill can drip and settle beneath glass or plastic shelving, where you rarely check. -
Back corners
These areas stay damp and dark, especially near vents or coils. -
Drip tray under the fridge
Many people don’t even know this tray exists. It collects condensation and food residue over time and is rarely cleaned.
What Mold in the Fridge Can Do
Mold can contaminate food, trigger allergies, and cause unpleasant odors. It’s not just a cleaning issue—it’s a health concern.
How to Get Rid of It
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Take out all shelves and drawers and clean with hot, soapy water
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Use white vinegar or baking soda to kill surface mold
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Don’t forget the rubber gaskets and seals
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Wipe down corners, under shelves, and around the door hinges
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If your fridge has a drip tray, pull it out and clean it thoroughly
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Let everything dry completely before putting items back in
How to Prevent Mold From Coming Back
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Clean out your fridge every 1 to 2 weeks
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Wipe up spills immediately
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Keep food covered and sealed
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Use baking soda inside the fridge to absorb moisture
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Air it out once in a while if you’re not using it regularly
Your fridge doesn’t need to look dirty to be a problem. Checking the spots you normally skip can make all the difference.
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