Expert Tips on Putting Away Your Freezer Properly

Posted on 25/05/2025

Expert Tips on Putting Away Your Freezer Properly

Are you thinking about storing or moving your freezer for a season, renovation, or relocation? Proper freezer storage isn't just about unplugging it and walking away. Instead, taking the right steps can protect your appliance, preserve its efficiency, and ensure its longevity. In this in-depth guide, we'll provide the most effective methods, professional insights, and expert tips on putting away your freezer properly--tailored for novice and seasoned appliance users alike.

Why Proper Freezer Storage Matters

Freezers are essential household appliances, and whether you're tucking it away during a remodel or storing it for future use, the process involves more than simply turning off the switch. Proper freezer storage prevents mold, unwanted odors, internal corrosion, and mechanical damage. Read on to learn why and how you should correctly put your freezer away.

Potential Issues With Improper Freezer Storage

• Mold and Mildew Growth: Freezers retain moisture after use. Without appropriate preparation, spores thrive in these environments, resulting in stubborn mold and mildew.
• Lingering Odors: Any food residue left behind will continue to break down, causing foul smells that can saturate plastics and linings.
• Mechanical Issues: Allowing a freezer to accumulate rust or dirt internally may impair its operational parts.
• Loss of Efficiency: If not stored in proper conditions, internal parts can degrade, reducing your freezer's long-term performance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put Away Your Freezer Correctly

Ensure your freezer stays functional and safe for future use by following these expert strategies for putting away a freezer.

1. Empty the Freezer Completely

Remove all contents from inside your freezer. If possible, plan ahead so you use up frozen goods and perishables to minimize waste. Any remaining food should be stored in a secondary freezer or appropriately disposed of.

Tip:

• Donate unopened packaged foods to a local food bank if you won't use them.
• Prepare meals from leftovers before the freezer shutdown date.

2. Unplug and Defrost

Unplug your freezer 24-48 hours prior to moving or storing. Allow ice to melt fully, as any residual frost can cause water damage, mold, and electrical issues. Defrosting your freezer properly is an essential step in putting it away safely.

• Open the door: Let warm air in to speed up the process.
• Absorb water: Place towels at the base to catch drips and check periodically.
• Never chip at ice: Sharp objects can damage liners and pipes.

Expert Insight: If your freezer features an automatic defrost option, use it to avoid manual effort and reduce the risk of damaging internal components.

3. Deep Clean the Interior and Exterior

Once all water and ice have been removed, thoroughly clean and sanitize every surface. Use these recommended cleaning steps:

• Mix a solution of baking soda and warm water (1 tablespoon soda per quart).
• Wipe down all shelves, drawers, door seals, and sides.
• Dry thoroughly. Allow every part to air dry to prevent residual dampness from causing mold.
• Clean and dry the exterior, paying extra attention to the back panel and underneath the appliance.

Bonus Tip: For persistent odors, use activated charcoal or a bowl of coffee grounds inside the empty freezer for a day to neutralize any lingering smells before storage.

4. Remove and Clean Accessories

Take out removable parts such as drawers, shelves, and door bins. Wash them with soap and water, rinse, and dry thoroughly before replacing them. Storing accessories inside the compartment can help keep all parts together, but ensure they are completely dry to avoid trapped moisture.

5. Secure the Door and Power Cord

• Leave the door ajar: Use a small wedge or tape to keep the freezer door open by about an inch. This prevents a closed, moist environment that could otherwise breed mold and bad odors.
• Secure the power cord: Coil and tape it to the exterior or top of the unit, minimizing tripping hazards and preventing cord damage.

6. Move the Freezer Carefully

Transporting your freezer--either within your home or to another location--should be handled with care:

• Always keep the freezer upright to prevent compressor oil leakage.
• Use a dolly or cart, and have an extra set of hands if your freezer is large.
• Secure doors and removable parts with tape or bungee cords to prevent shifting.
• Avoid laying the freezer on its back or sides whenever possible.

7. Choose the Right Storage Location

Freezer storage location plays a crucial role in its preservation. Select a space that is:

• Cool and dry: Damp areas can accelerate rust and promote mold growth.
• Well-ventilated: Good air circulation protects the appliance's finish and internal parts.
• Safe from extreme temperatures: Avoid outdoor sheds or garages in regions with frequent freeze-thaw cycles or high heat.
• Protected from pests: Rodents can chew cords and damage seals.

8. Cover but Don't Seal

Lightly cover your freezer with a breathable sheet or purpose-made appliance cover. Avoid plastic wrap or airtight covers, as these can trap moisture, fostering mildew and corrosion. The goal is to protect from dust while still allowing air flow.

How to Maintain Your Freezer During Storage

• Inspect periodically: Open the freezer monthly and check for signs of mold, rust, or pest activity.
• Clean any dust buildup on coils, vents, and exterior surfaces.
• Ensure the door remains unsealed and ajar at all times.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Your Freezer

1. Leaving food inside: Even sealed food can spoil, leak, or attract pests if forgotten.
2. Skipping the cleaning step: Residual debris almost always results in odors or mold.
3. Sealing the door shut: Most mold and odor issues are caused by insufficient airflow inside the stored freezer.
4. Ignoring the power cord: Leaving it loose can damage the cord, creating electrical hazards down the line.
5. Choosing a bad storage spot: Basements prone to flooding or sheds prone to wild temperature swings are high-risk.

Restoring a Freezer After Storage

Ready to bring your freezer back into use? Follow these tips to ensure safe reactivation after storage:

• Inspect the unit for visible wear, rust, pest activity, or mold.
• Wipe down all internal and external surfaces again to remove accumulated dust.
• If any odors are present, use baking soda or a commercial deodorizer before restocking.
• Plugin the freezer and allow 4-6 hours of cooling before adding food.
• Double-check that all accessories are in the proper position.

Pro Tip:

After long storage, allow your freezer to run empty for at least 24 hours, monitoring for abnormal noises or performance issues.

Should You Store an Old Freezer or Dispose?

Not every freezer is a good candidate for storage. If your appliance is outdated, inefficient, or has damaged parts, consider these questions:

• Is the unit still energy efficient? Old freezers can significantly raise electricity bills after re-use.
• Was the freezer consistently cold before storage?
• Are seals, gaskets, and components intact?

If your freezer fails these checks, responsible recycling may be the best option. Contact local waste services or appliance retailers for environmentally-friendly disposal programs.

FAQs: More Expert Tips on Freezer Storage

How long can I store a freezer safely?

With proper preparation (defrosting, cleaning, and venting), most freezers can be stored for months to several years. Periodically check the unit for signs of trouble during long-term storage.

Can I store a freezer outside?

Only in mild climates and if protected from rain, pests, and extreme temperatures. Excessive heat or freezing conditions may damage sensitive parts. Ideally, store indoors in a controlled environment.

Should I use commercial cleaning or deodorizing products?

Mild soaps and baking soda are typically sufficient, but commercial products can help with stubborn odors or stains. Always rinse thoroughly to avoid chemical residues that could affect stored food later.

What should I do if my freezer develops mold during storage?

Use a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water, or a mixture of baking soda and water, to scrub affected areas. Keep the appliance vented until odors are gone.

Can I lay my freezer down when moving?

Try to keep the freezer upright. If you must lay it down, let it stand upright for at least 24 hours before running it again, so any displaced compressor oil can settle back.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Putting Away Your Freezer Properly

• Defrost and clean thoroughly--don't skip this!
• Store the freezer upright in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location
• Leave the door slightly open to prevent odors and mold
• Secure the power cord and removable accessories
• Inspect periodically, even in long-term storage

Putting away a freezer properly is a straightforward but essential process that can save you from repair bills, lost food, and a shortened appliance lifespan down the road. Following these expert tips on putting away your freezer ensures your investment stays in top shape, ready for reliable service when you need it again. For more appliance maintenance advice and professional how-tos, keep reading our blog!