Care and cleaning of the refrigerator, Safety

Care and cleaning of the refrigerator.

Safety

Press here to remove grille.

Cleaning the Outside

The dispenser well, (on some models) beneath the grille, should be wiped dry. Water left in the well may leave deposits. Remove the deposits by adding undiluted vinegar to the well. Soak until the deposits disappear or become loose enough to rinse away.

The dispenser pad (on some models). Clean with warm water and baking soda solution— about a tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda to a quart (1 L) of water. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry.

HINT: Open the freezer door part way to prevent dispensing of ice or water when cleaning.

The door handles and trim. Clean with a cloth dampened with soapy water. Dry with a soft cloth.

Keep the outside clean. Wipe with a clean cloth lightly dampened with kitchen appliance wax or mild liquid dish detergent. Dry and polish with a clean, soft cloth.

Do not wipe the refrigerator with a soiled dish cloth or wet towel. These may leave a residue that can erode the paint. Do not use scouring pads, powdered cleaners, bleach or cleaners containing bleach because these products can scratch and weaken the paint finish.

Instructions Operating Instructions

Cleaning the Inside

To help prevent odors, leave an open box of baking soda in the fresh food and freezer compartments.

Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning. If this is not practical, wring excess moisture out of sponge or cloth when cleaning around switches, lights or controls.

Use warm water and baking soda solution— about a tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda to a quart (1 L) of water. This both cleans and neutralizes odors. Rinse and wipe dry.

After cleaning the door gaskets, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the door gaskets at the hinge side. This helps keep the gaskets from sticking and bending out of shape.

Drain opening in freezer compartment. During yearly cleaning, remove bottom freezer basket and flush a solution of baking soda— 1 teaspoon (5 ml) and 2 cups (500 ml) of hot (not boiling) water—through the drain line with the help of a meat baster. This will help eliminate odor and reduce the likelihood of a clogged drain line. If drain becomes clogged, use a meat baster and baking soda solution to force the clog through the drain line.

Avoid cleaning cold glass shelves (on some models) with hot water because the extreme temperature difference may cause them to break. Handle glass shelves carefully. Bumping tempered glass can cause it to shatter.

Do not wash any plastic refrigerator parts in the dishwasher.

Wash ice trays in lukewarm water only—do not put them in an automatic dishwasher.

GE 162D6733P007 Care and cleaning of the refrigerator, Cleaning the Outside, Cleaning the Inside