How to Sanitize a Refrigerator After Water or Food Contamination

Refrigerators are among the most critical sanitation points in a household following water intrusion, power outages, or food contamination events. Cold temperatures slow microbial growth but do not eliminate bacteria already present on surfaces, seals, and internal components.

Below are key contamination risks and sanitation priorities homeowners must address to restore refrigerator safety.

• Cross-contamination from spoiled food and leaked liquids
Liquids from raw meat, dairy, or spoiled foods can spread bacteria throughout shelves, drawers, and seals.

• Biofilm formation on seals and drain channels
Rubber gaskets and internal drain ports retain moisture and organic matter, supporting persistent microbial communities.

• Temperature abuse during outages
Even short periods above safe temperatures allow bacterial proliferation.

• Ice makers and water dispensers as hidden reservoirs
Internal tubing and trays are frequently overlooked during cleaning.

• Improper disinfectant use
Food-contact surfaces require careful selection and rinsing to avoid chemical residue.

Sanitizing a refrigerator requires complete emptying, disassembly of removable parts, detergent cleaning, targeted disinfection, and thorough drying. Confirmation testing provides added assurance. A Home Sanitation Confirmation Test can help determine whether bacteria remain on food-contact surfaces after cleaning.

By A. Anagnos, Biomedical Engineering Specialist