Does Your Refrigerator Have a Lint Trap? Appliance Pros Explain What to Clean Instead

You’re likely familiar with the lint trap in your dryer. You may even know that there is often one in your washer. These lint traps are strategically placed to capture all the extra fibers that fly off your clothing during laundering. But what about your refrigerator? Is there a lint trap to collect the dust and dirt that invariably gets caught up in the refrigeration system?

According to HVAC expert Russ Teaca, the answer is no: A refrigerator is a closed-loop mechanical system that cools things down, rather than moving air around. “But the fact that there isn’t a ‘trap' sign doesn’t mean that the unit isn’t collecting trash,” he says. “From an HVAC point of view,” Teaca explains, “your fridge cleans up dust and pet hair like a hoover because it’s always pulling air across its moving parts to keep them cool.” 

So while you may not have to empty the ever-familiar lint basket, there is undoubtedly buildup in other places that needs tending to before it causes damage to your appliance. Below are the often-overlooked components that need regular cleaning. Here’s what to know.

The Condenser Coils

Dirty coils are known as the “silent killer” of refrigeration systems, according to Teaca. “Your refrigerator has metal coils that pull heat from inside and send it into your kitchen,” he explains. These coils are usually found at the bottom behind the kick plate or on the back of the unit. 

After some time, dust, pet hair, and food grease will accumulate here. This gunky buildup insulates the coils and keeps their heat contained to the inside, “like a heavy wool jumper,” says Teaca. This makes the fan work overtime to cool your food—and you will see it reflected in your energy bill.

Cleaning Instructions:

After unplugging, slowly pull the refrigerator away from the wall or take off the lower front or rear access panel to reveal the coils. Use a vacuum’s brush attachment to remove loose dust and hair. Then take a condenser coil brush to carefully dislodge any compacted debris, being careful not to bend the delicate fins.

Once the debris is loosened, vacuum once more, replace the access panel, and move your refrigerator back into place.

The Intake and Exhaust Grills

Your refrigerator requires airflow, just as your heater does. Teaca explains that the toe kick on the bottom front of the appliance usually contains slots for fans, and the back contains panels with vents. 

“These are the machine’s lungs,” he says. “If dust bunnies or other things get stuck in these grills, the fan inside can’t move enough air across the compressor to keep it cool.” This is most common when there isn’t enough space around your refrigerator, commonly because of built-in cabinets.

Cleaning Instructions:

In order to allow air to flow freely in and around your appliance, the slots of your intake and exhaust grills need to be cleaned regularly. Remove the grill cover if it is removable, then wash it with mild dish soap and warm water. Dry the grill thoroughly before replacing it.

For non-removable grills, first vacuum the dust accumulation with a vacuum cleaner with a crevice or brush attachment. Then use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the surface clean. 

The Door Gaskets (Seals)

The door gasket serves the essential role of sealing the air inside the appliance. If the seal becomes dirty, cracked, or dried out, small gaps may form that allow warm air to infiltrate the system. Much like leaving the windows open while running an air conditioner, the mechanical system in your refrigerator has to work harder to make up for any gaps in the seal.

“Most gaskets are equipped with folds or grooves, sometimes referred to as pleats, that not only aid in the retention of cold air but also might get covered with crumbs, spills, and moisture,” adds cleaning professional Jessica English. “The situation becomes worse from a food safety standpoint as the poor seal leads to uneven temperatures, making it conducive for bacteria to grow in the food sitting above the safe cold zone.” 

Cleaning Instructions:

To keep the appliance sufficiently sealed, fridge gaskets should be cleaned weekly. “Open the refrigerator door and thoroughly check the gasket for dirt, sticky substances, or mold”, says English, “especially in the folds.”

Then, dampen a clean microfiber cloth in a solution of warm water and dish soap and wipe the gasket carefully, lifting the folds and employing a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt in the creases. Dry any wet areas using a clean, dry towel.