Refrigerator Mold/Mildew
Keeping mold/mildew out of an RV refrigerator
Gross!! You clean your refrigerator at the end of the camping season or even between camping trips and then come back to find mold and/or mildew all inside. What to do??? Bacteria (mold) grows due to minute particles of bacteria left behind when you clean. To make sure you get rid of all of it, we suggest the following:
1. Remove all bins and shelves and clean those and let them dry completely before replacing. (Do not put into dishwasher).
2. Clean the refrigerator thoroughly using a mild solution of bleach and soap or a product that contains bleach. Be sure to vent your camper while doing this as it can be harmful to your health. Use this on the refrigerator and freezer.
3. If possible, use a clean spray bottle and water and spritz everything inside to rinse all this cleaning solution off (remember, it too will now contain bacteria). Placing a towel in the bottom of the refrigerator will be helpful in catching this water. If you can't spray, then use a clean towel and rinse the cleaning agent off.
4. Dry completely using clean cloths. Then leave the refrigerator door propped open to make sure all the moisture evaporates.
5. If possible, keep the door open to prevent future moisture buildup. This is where those blue tabs that came with your refrigerator come in handy. If those aren't available, just prop open with a small cloth. If you absolutely cannot leave the door open, then the next best thing is to crumple up newspaper and stuff the refrigerator. You will have to wipe off a bit of news print when you remove it, but the paper will absorb any moisture buildup. We have tried everything from charcoal, to kitty litter, to commercial moisture removers -- and plain old black/white newspapers do the best job by far.
**Remember when you re-start your refrigerator, it takes 3-4 hours to start cooling and 24 hours to reach the correct temperature. Always try to stock with cold food, not warm food that has to be cooled down. AND, did you know that it takes between 1/2-1 hour for the refrigerator to recover EACH time you open the door???
