Molds are actually microscopic fungi that live on plant or animal matter. Mold grows from tiny spores that float around in the air. When some of these spores fall onto a piece of damp food, they grow into mold.
In order for mold to grow there needs to be three things: a food source, a moisture source and the proper temperature. Food mold feeds itself by producing chemicals that make the food break down and start to rot. As the food source rots, the mold grows. If you want to make sure mold does not grow, be sure to wipe up any food spills immediately. Do not allow moisture to build up on doors, walls or gaskets.
Cleaning mold from your appliance:
- Clean the inside of the refrigerator every few months with 1 tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water. Rinse with clear water and dry.
- Scrub visible mold (usually black) on rubber casings using 1 tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water.
- Clean the spot where the food was stored.
- Check nearby items the moldy food might have touched. Mold spreads quickly in fruits and vegetables.
To minimize the formation of mold in the refrigerator, keep the humidity level in the house as low as possible (below 40% percent is preferable).