Calcium and hard water stains can truly be a nuisance for your refrigerator water dispenser. Discover how to effectively clean the fridge dispenser tray in just a few minutes without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Growing up, I was always fascinated by refrigerators equipped with water dispensers on the door. It felt so convenient to access cool, fresh water and ice without having to open the fridge. Nowadays, it’s hard to find a refrigerator without a water dispenser; they are user-friendly and encourage us to stay hydrated. However, these dispensers can quickly become a cleaning challenge!
Our refrigerator water dispenser tends to collect dirt and grime surprisingly fast. I aim to clean it every couple of months, but after my child got a new water bottle, things took a turn. Within just a few days, water sprayed everywhere during filling, leaving the area looking filthy. If you deal with hard water issues, check out how I tackle stains on glasses, limescale accumulation on faucets, and mineral deposits on showerheads.
What You’ll Need
- White Vinegar (the classic, all-purpose variety)
- Gallon Ziploc Bag
- Electric Scrubber or an Old Toothbrush (I found mine on Amazon)
- Microfiber Cloth (I highly recommend using quality microfiber cloths)
Steps to Clean the Water Dispenser in Your Refrigerator
STEP 1: Begin by carefully removing the water dispenser tray. Usually, these trays can be easily detached by pulling them out. Since the tray collects most of the water, it often accumulates the most buildup.
STEP 2: Place the tray inside a large Ziploc bag. Pour about 1/2 cup of vinegar into the bag, ensuring it covers the tray completely. Seal the bag and set it aside.
STEP 3: Pour a small amount of vinegar into a bowl. Use your electric scrubber or an old toothbrush to dip into the vinegar.
STEP 4: With the toothbrush, scrub around the area where the water dispenses from the refrigerator. The scrubbing motion will help dislodge any stubborn hard water stains, while the vinegar aids in eliminating germs.
STEP 5: After thoroughly scrubbing the dispensing area, turn your attention to the spot where the ice comes out. Continue using the toothbrush to clean this area as well.
STEP 6: Once you’ve finished scrubbing all the necessary areas, use a microfiber cloth to do a final wipe with a bit more vinegar. This ensures you reach every nook and cranny, especially the spots a cup might touch while filling.
STEP 7: After cleaning the dispenser, return to the tray. Take it out of the plastic bag and gently scrub away any remaining hard water deposits. If the buildup doesn’t come off easily, place it back in the bag and let it soak in vinegar for another 30 minutes to an hour before trying again.
STEP 8: Finally, replace the tray back into the refrigerator water dispenser, and enjoy a much cleaner appliance! This method not only enhances the appearance but also eliminates germs and bacteria lurking around the dispenser—especially crucial during cold and flu season.
Common FAQs
Why is there black stuff in my refrigerator water dispenser?
There are a few reasons you might notice black particles in your refrigerator’s water dispenser. If it’s not cleaned regularly, or if water remains stagnant for long periods, it creates a moist environment conducive to mold or mildew growth, leading to dark particles. Additionally, the issue could stem from a clogged water filter that has developed mold or bacteria. It may also be due to contaminants in the water supply pipes, or from degrading rubber or plastic components within the dispenser itself.
How do you remove mold from a water dispenser?
The vinegar soaking method described above is effective for removing not just hard water deposits but also mold and mildew.
Can fridge water lines get moldy?
Yes, refrigerator water lines can indeed become moldy if they aren’t properly maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. The materials used in the water lines—typically plastic or rubber—can foster an environment for mold and bacteria if neglected. In cases of severe clogging due to hard water deposits, replacing the lines might be a more practical solution than cleaning them.
More Appliance Cleaning Tips and Tricks
- The Easiest Way to Clean the Oven
- Clean Your Keurig The Easy Way
- How To Get Burnt Smell Out Of Microwave
- Simple Tips To Make Your Dishwasher Run Like New
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