How To Defrost And Clean Your Freezer

What You'll Need
Before you begin the cleaning process, gather your supplies. You don’t want to leave your freezer half cleaned while you rush out to the store. Here's what you’ll need: 

• Rag or sponge
• Towel or paper towels
• Vinegar or an alternative sanitizing cleaner
• Water
• Baking soda
• An old toothbrush
• Bleach

 
The Cleaning Process
Step 1: Empty out the freezer
 Place items in a cooler full of ice. If the freezer and refrigerator function as a single unit, you’ll need to empty the refrigerator of highly perishable items such as milk and eggs. Place perishables in the cooler. 
 
Step 2: Unplug the unit and defrost it
 Many freezers aren't subject to ice or frost  build-up of frost. If yours isn't , skip this step. If it is. unplug the unit from the wall and open the lid or door. Depending on the amount of ice build-up, defrosting may require anywhere from half an hour to several hours. Don’t abandon the freezer as it defrosts or you'll have a lot of water to sop up later. Instead, use a knife or spatula to gently
remove  ice once it begins to melt. 
 
Step 3: Wipe and cleanse the freezer
 First, get rid of any debris that has collected on the bottom. Then use  warm water and a cleaning product to wipe spills off of the sides and bottom of the freezer. Then simply wipe the freezer out with a rag or sponge. If your freezer has any shelves or drawers, take them out and scrub them in the sink.
 
Rinse off  cleaning solution with clean water to avoid leaving any stickiness or residue in the interior. Wash the door, both inside and outside. Also, wash other exterior surfaces.
 
You can use an old toothbrush to access seals or corners. If you encounter a stubborn  stain, dip  the toothbrush in a solution consisting of one part bleach and three parts water. This will remove
mildew.
 
Step 4:  Deodorize the freezer
 Once the freezer is clean, you can remove any lingering odors by scrubbing areas with a mixture of water and baking soda.
 
Step 5: Dry the freezer
 Use a dish towel or paper towel to dry the inside and outside of the freezer. Then replace any drawers And/or shelves you removed.
 
At this point, you may want to coat freezer surfaces with nonstick cooking spray or glycerin. This will prevent ice from sticking to the surfaces.
 
Step 6: Return food to the freezer
 Place heavier items on the bottom. This will prevent spills from boxes and bags that  get crushed or split open.
 
Source(s):
Howtocleanstuff.net "How to Clean a Freezer"