Cleaning Mildew from an Icemaker

For many people there is nothing more difficult to clean than a refrigerator that has mildew. The reason for this is rather simple, there are so many nooks, crannies, and crevices that mildew can could get into that it makes the job more difficult than it really should be. One of the more difficult places to clean, at least at first glance, is the icemaker that comes with many refrigerators. Cleaning mildew from an icemaker doesn't need to be a long and drawn out process. Here are a few steps that you can use to ensure that you get your icemaker mildew free.

• Clean out the fridge. Before you can start cleaning mildew from an icemaker, you need to make sure that you do not have mildew any where else on the refrigerator. Start doing this by removing all of the contents from the refrigerator. As you are pulling out the food and other items, take time to thoroughly inspect the refrigerator. Look for any signs of mildew, dirt, grime, or other mess. Look both inside and out to ensure that you recognize where everything is.
• Turn off the power. Turn off the power to the refrigerator. This will help you to ensure you are not incubating any mildew in the refrigerator. In addition, by having the refrigerator turned off you will also have an easier time cleaning the refrigerator (and the icemaker) with a refrigerator that is at room temperature.
• Clean the exterior. While you are waiting for the refrigerator to reach room temperature you can begin cleaning the exterior. When you are doing this, make sure that you are using the right cleaning tools. For example, you will want to use sponges, soft clean cloths, stiff bristled nylon brushes, denatured alcohol, or vinegar to scour the exterior of the refrigerator. Pay particular attention to the nooks, crannies, and vents to ensure that you get everything that could possibly be dirty.
• Clean the interior. By the time that you have finished cleaning and allowing the exterior of the refrigerator, repeat the process on the interior. When cleaning the icemaker though, try pouring some food grade alcohol into the icemaker. Briefly turn the power back on and allow the icemaker to work the alcohol through the system. This should clean out any mess that may be inside the maker.
• If necessary, hire a professional. In the event that you still find yourself with a musty odor coming from the icemaker, then it is time to call in the professionals. Have a repairman look over the refrigerator itself, and have someone come in to test the water supply as well. This is not something you want to mess around with.