How to Store a Refrigerator When You're Not Using It

Store your refrigerator in a cool, dry place with the doors propped open to prevent mold and odor buildup

If you're moving, replacing an old unit, or storing a spare refrigerator, the way you prepare and position it matters. A refrigerator left sealed in a damp garage or basement will develop mold inside within weeks, and that smell becomes nearly impossible to remove. The goal is to let air circulate through the cabinet while protecting it from temperature swings and moisture.

Before storage, clean the interior thoroughly, leave the doors open, and store it in a climate-controlled space if possible. If climate control isn't available, choose the driest location you have—a covered porch is better than an unheated basement, and a basement is better than an outdoor shed. The unit should sit upright on a level surface, never on its side or back, because the oil in the compressor can flow into the cooling lines and cause damage when you plug it in again.

Key Takeaways

• Clean the refrigerator completely and leave both doors propped open during storage to prevent mold, mildew, and trapped odors.
• Store the unit upright on a level surface in a cool, dry location—never on its side, back, or in direct sunlight.
• If the refrigerator was transported horizontally, wait at least four hours before plugging it in so the compressor oil can settle back into place.
• Place a box or wedge under each door to hold it open slightly, or remove the doors entirely if you're storing it long-term.
• Check on the unit every few weeks if it's in storage longer than a month to ensure no moisture or pests have entered.

Clean and dry the interior before you store it

Start with a thorough cleaning while the refrigerator is still plugged in and cold. Remove all shelves, drawers, and removable parts. Wipe down every surface—walls, ceiling, floor, and the rubber gasket around the door—with a cloth dampened in a solution of one tablespoon of baking soda per quart of warm water. This removes food residue, bacteria, and the start of any odor that will only intensify in a sealed space.

Pay special attention to the gasket, the rubber seal that runs around the door frame. Food particles and moisture hide there, and mold loves that environment. Use an old toothbrush to scrub into the folds. Rinse everything with a clean, damp cloth, then dry all surfaces with a towel. Leave the doors open for at least an hour to air-dry completely before you move the unit.

Once the interior is dry, you can place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb any odors that develop during storage. Replace it every month if the unit will be stored for longer than that.

Position the refrigerator upright and keep doors open

Always store a refrigerator in an upright position. The compressor—the motor that runs the cooling system—contains oil that must stay in the right place. If you lay the unit on its side or back, that oil can flow into the cooling lines. When you plug it in later, the compressor can't pump properly and may be damaged beyond repair.

If the refrigerator was transported lying down, stand it upright and wait at least four hours (some manufacturers recommend up to 24 hours) before plugging it in. This gives the oil time to drain back to the compressor where it belongs.

The doors must stay open or propped open during storage. A sealed refrigerator becomes a closed box where moisture and odors concentrate. Use wooden blocks, plastic wedges, or even rolled-up towels to hold each door open about two inches. If you're storing the unit for many months, consider removing the doors entirely and storing them separately—this eliminates any risk of seal damage and makes the cabinet easier to fit into tight spaces.

Choose a storage location that stays dry and moderate

The best storage location is a climate-controlled space: a spare bedroom, finished basement, or climate-controlled storage unit. These spaces stay between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and don't experience the humidity swings that garages, unheated basements, and sheds do.

If climate control isn't available, choose the driest spot you have access to. A covered porch or carport is better than an open garage, which is better than an unheated basement, which is better than an outdoor shed. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the exterior and cause temperature fluctuations inside the cabinet. Never store a refrigerator outdoors, even under a cover—rain, snow, and temperature extremes will damage the seals and electrical components.

Basements present a particular challenge because they tend to be damp. If a basement is your only option, place the refrigerator on a wooden pallet or platform rather than directly on the floor, so air can circulate underneath and moisture doesn't pool against the back panel. Run a dehumidifier in the space if you have one, or check on the unit every two weeks to make sure no condensation is forming inside.

Protect the exterior and check periodically

Cover the refrigerator with a clean sheet or tarp to keep dust off the exterior and prevent accidental damage. Make sure the cover allows some air circulation—don't seal it in plastic wrap, which can trap moisture against the cabinet. A breathable fabric cover or an old bedsheet works well.

If you're storing the unit for longer than a month, check on it every two to four weeks. Open the doors and look for any signs of moisture, mold, or pest entry. Wipe down the interior again if you see condensation, and replace the odor-absorbing box if it's been a month. These brief checks catch problems early, when they're still easy to fix.

Before you plug the refrigerator back in after storage, inspect the power cord for any damage, clean the condenser coils on the back (they collect dust during storage), and leave the doors open for a few hours to air out any stale smell. Then plug it in, set the temperature to the coldest setting, and let it run empty for two to four hours before you add food.

What to do if you're storing it long-term

Long-term storage—more than three months—requires a bit more attention. In addition to the steps above, you may want to remove the doors entirely. This prevents the gasket from becoming permanently creased or warped, eliminates any risk of mold growing in the seal, and makes the cabinet much easier to move or fit into a storage space. Store the doors flat in a dry location, and keep the hinges and hardware in a labeled bag so you can reattach them later.

If the refrigerator has an ice maker or water dispenser, turn off the water supply before storage and drain any water from the lines. Stagnant water in those lines can develop bacteria or freeze if the temperature drops. Check the manufacturer's manual for specific instructions on your model.

Keep the baking soda or charcoal fresh—replace it monthly—and continue checking every few weeks. When you're ready to use the refrigerator again, follow the same startup steps: inspect the cord, clean the coils, let it air out, and run it empty for a few hours before adding food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store a refrigerator in an unheated garage over winter?

It's not ideal, but it's possible if you take precautions. Unheated garages drop below freezing in winter, which can damage the seals and crack plastic components. If you must use a garage, insulate the unit with blankets and monitor the temperature. In spring, let it warm to room temperature before plugging it in. A climate-controlled space is much safer for long-term storage.

What if my refrigerator was transported on its side?

Stand it upright immediately and wait at least four hours—preferably 24 hours—before plugging it in. The compressor oil needs time to drain back to the compressor. Plugging it in too soon can damage the cooling system. Check your manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendation, as some models require longer waiting periods.

How often should I check on a stored refrigerator?

Every two to four weeks is ideal, especially if it's in a damp location like a basement. Look for condensation, mold, or pest entry. If you see moisture inside, wipe it down and replace the odor absorber. These quick checks prevent small problems from becoming expensive damage.

Can I store a refrigerator in a shed or outdoor storage unit?

Not recommended. Outdoor and unheated spaces experience temperature swings and moisture that damage seals, electrical components, and the compressor. If you have no other option, use a climate-controlled storage unit instead. The cost is worth protecting your refrigerator.

Do I need to remove the shelves and drawers before storage?

Yes. Remove all removable parts and store them separately in a clean, dry place. This makes cleaning easier, prevents the parts from warping or cracking due to temperature changes, and reduces the risk of mold growing on them. Wrap them in clean cloth or bubble wrap to protect them during storage.