1. A fridge can be dirtier than a toilet seat

Studies have found that some areas of a fridge, especially the vegetable crisper can harbour more bacteria per square centimetre than the average toilet seat.

2. Listeria can grow even in cold temperatures 

Unlike most bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes (which can cause serious illness) can thrive in your fridge, especially on old deli meats, soft cheeses, and unwashed produce. Cleaning regularly helps prevent it from spreading.

3. Cross-contamination happens faster than you think 

If raw meat juices leak onto your shelves, they can contaminate everything nearby. Harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli can quickly spread to your ready-to-eat foods so always keep your meats separate from other foods, ideally in a separate container or tray.

4. A dirty fridge wastes energy and money

Dusty vents, sticky door seals, and overloaded shelves can make your fridge work harder than it should, increasing your electricity bill and shortening your fridge’s lifespan. Regular cleaning helps to keep it running efficiently.

5. Bad smells are actually signs of chemical breakdown 

That weird fridge smell you’ve noticed from time to time? It’s actually caused by gases (like ethylene and sulfur compounds) released as your food rots. These gases can speed up spoilage of other foods, meaning more waste and more grocery bills if you don't clean!

If this has motivated you to give your fridge a clean, try the Améli Home all natural cleaning spray today. This food-safe, non-sticky solution cleans effectively without chemicals.

INGREDIENTS FOR 500ML

• 400ml distilled water
• 100ml vodka
• 2 teaspoons Castile soap (about 10ml)
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil

METHOD

In a 500ml Améli Home spray bottle, gently stir the water, vodka and castile soap. Add the peppermint oil drops and gently stir to combine.  Ensure the oils have emulsified to prevent spray trigger blockages and add more vodka if required until completely dissolved into the water.  

USE

Best paired with a soft microfibre cloth. Spray surfaces of fridge interior and wipe clean.

NOTES

The vodka helps the mixture to evaporate quickly, whilst also helping to disinfect. The peppermint oil is naturally antimicrobial and cleans with a fresh scent, without damaging the fridge plastics. The castile soap at this ratio is the perfect blend for the fridge to ensure there is less residue and no risk of sticky cleaning product build up.

Please note, after prolonged exposure to essential oils, the adhesive on your Améli Home cap liner may weaken.  If this happens, please reach out to hello@amelihome.com for a free replacement liner with no adhesive. We are currently producing cap liners that will be compatible with all liquids.