QUESTION: Refrigerator and freezer: how to properly defrost the freezer?

Proper and regular defrosting of the freezer compartment is the key to its long-lasting operation, efficient energy saving, and hygienic food storage. Start this process by creating a simple step-by-step plan that includes defining the goal, estimating the budget for potential cleaning products, allocating the necessary timeframe, and preparing a list of materials.

First of all, you will need to prepare everything necessary for the job: cleaning sponges, soft microfiber cloths, a safe detergent, containers for collecting meltwater, as well as insulated bags or a cooler bag if the weather is warm, so that temporarily moving the food does not cause it to thaw.

Then proceed in small iterations and check the result at each step, starting with unplugging the appliance from the electrical outlet and temporarily moving all frozen supplies into the prepared insulated bags.

Next, open the freezer door, remove all removable drawers and shelves, and lay highly absorbent towels on the bottom of the compartment or place wide containers for the draining water. Let the ice melt naturally, avoiding the use of sharp metal objects and knives that could damage the plastic or puncture the cooling circuit.

After complete thawing, thoroughly wash the internal surfaces with warm water and a mild soapy solution, remove residual moisture with a dry cloth, and leave the door open for a while to air out completely.

At the final stage, return the clean drawers to their places, plug the freezer in, and wait about an hour for the temperature inside to stabilize before carefully putting the food back.