Remove Hard Refrigerator Stains With This Unexpected Bathroom Staple

When it comes to our homes, the refrigerator is undeniably the workhorse of the kitchen. It tirelessly keeps our food fresh, chilled, and ready to satisfy our hunger. However, over time, it's not just food that accumulates in there; stains and spills can also make themselves at home. Left unchecked, they often harden, becoming a real eyesore. But fear not, there's a TikTok hack shared by @partstown revealing a surprising secret weapon in the battle against those stubborn refrigerator stains: toothpaste.

Refrigerator stains are an inevitable part of kitchen life, usually brought on by mishaps involving container leaks or forgotten produce gone bad. These stains aren't only unpleasant to look at, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria if not dealt with promptly. Worse yet, if left unaddressed for too long, the stains can harden into a seemingly permanent fixture inside your fridge.

Now, you might be wondering, "Why toothpaste?" Well, here's the science behind its effectiveness as a hard stain remover: Toothpaste contains mild abrasives like calcium carbonate, baking soda, or hydrated silica. These tiny abrasive particles are gentle enough not to damage the refrigerator surface but effective enough to break down and lift away hardened stains.

Additionally, toothpaste often contains surfactants, which help to loosen and emulsify stains. These surfactants reduce the surface tension of water, making it easier for the stain to be lifted and wiped away. So, toothpaste isn't just for brightening your smile; it can also brighten up your fridge!

Now, it's time to apply this toothpaste hack. All you need is toothpaste, a clean old toothbrush (a soft cloth or sponge works fine, too), and some warm water. For the toothpaste, opt for the regular white, non-gel type, and avoid colored or gel toothpaste as they may contain additives that can leave residue or discolor your fridge. For your own safety, unplug your refrigerator during the cleaning process.

When ready, empty your fridge to get clear access to all stains and prevent food contamination. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush and gently scrub the affected area in a circular motion, applying only light pressure to prevent damaging the surface. Depending on how long the stain's been there, it may take some time to break it down completely. Continue scrubbing until the stain starts to lift, and once it's gone or significantly reduced, rinse the area thoroughly with warm water and wipe it clean, making sure to remove any leftover toothpaste residue. Use a clean, dry cloth to ensure the area is completely dry before you plug your refrigerator back in and return the food items you took out earlier.

To prevent further stubborn stains from forming, regularly clean your fridge. Using toothpaste to remove hard refrigerator stains is a budget-friendly and effective fridge cleaning solution. Just remember to take your time and be gentle, and you'll have your fridge looking fresh and stain-free in no time.