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

Prepare the refrigerator before storage

Before you put a refrigerator away, empty it completely and clean the interior thoroughly. Remove all food, shelves, and drawers. Wipe down every surface—walls, floor, and ceiling—with a damp cloth and mild dish soap. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where mold and mildew grow. Dry everything with a clean towel when you're done.

Leave the doors open for several hours after cleaning to allow the interior to air dry completely. Any moisture trapped inside during storage will create an environment where mold thrives. If your refrigerator has a drain hole at the back or bottom, make sure it's clear of debris so condensation can escape if any forms during storage.

Key Takeaways

• Clean the interior thoroughly and leave doors open to dry completely before storage to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Store the refrigerator upright in a climate-controlled space—never lay it on its side or back, as this damages the compressor.
• Keep the temperature between 50°F and 80°F and humidity below 80% to protect internal components from rust and corrosion.
• Leave doors slightly ajar or prop them open during storage so air circulates inside and odors don't build up.
• Check on the refrigerator every few months and run it for a few minutes to keep the compressor lubricated.

Position and location matter for long-term storage

Store your refrigerator upright—never on its side or back. Laying it down damages the compressor, which is the heart of the cooling system. If the refrigerator was transported horizontally, let it stand upright for at least 4 hours (some manufacturers recommend up to 24 hours) before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant and oil to settle back into their proper positions.

Choose a storage location that stays between 50°F and 80°F year-round. A climate-controlled garage, basement, or storage unit works better than an unheated shed or outdoor space. Extreme heat causes the compressor to work harder and can damage seals. Extreme cold can thicken the oil in the compressor and prevent it from starting when you plug it back in. Keep humidity below 80% to prevent rust on metal components and corrosion on electrical parts.

Manage moisture and odor during storage

Prop the doors open slightly or leave them fully ajar during storage. This prevents moisture from accumulating inside and stops odors from developing in the sealed space. If you're concerned about dust or pests entering through open doors, place a small piece of wood or a doorstop to hold the door open just an inch or two rather than closing it completely.

Place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the refrigerator to absorb any odors that do develop. Replace it every month or two. If you live in a very humid climate, you can also place a small container of uncooked rice or silica gel packets inside to absorb excess moisture. Check these materials monthly and replace them if they become saturated.

Protect external surfaces and components

Cover the refrigerator with a breathable cloth or tarp to protect it from dust, but avoid plastic sheeting that traps moisture against the exterior. Plastic can cause condensation to form on the outside of the unit, leading to rust on the cabinet. A cotton sheet or canvas tarp allows air to circulate while keeping dust away.

Make sure the cord is wrapped loosely and stored safely so it doesn't get damaged or create a tripping hazard. Do not coil the cord tightly around the refrigerator, as this can crack the insulation. If the refrigerator has an ice maker line or water line, drain it completely and cap the ends to prevent mold growth inside the lines.

Maintain the refrigerator during storage

Every two to three months, plug in the refrigerator and let it run for 15 to 30 minutes. This keeps the compressor lubricated and prevents the oil from thickening. It also helps you catch any problems early—if the refrigerator doesn't cool or makes unusual noises, you'll know before you need it again. Unplug it after the test run and leave the doors open again.

Check the storage location during these visits too. Look for signs of moisture, pests, or temperature swings. If you notice condensation inside the refrigerator, leave the doors open longer and consider adding more moisture-absorbing materials. If the location has become too hot, too cold, or too humid, move the refrigerator to a better spot if possible.

Prepare to use the refrigerator again

When you're ready to use the refrigerator again, let it sit upright and unplugged for at least 4 hours before plugging it in. This is especially important if it was moved or if the storage space was cold. The delay allows internal components to reach room temperature and prevents damage to the compressor from sudden pressure changes.

Clean the interior again before putting food inside, even though you cleaned it before storage. Dust and debris can settle during months of sitting idle. Wipe down all surfaces and replace any shelves and drawers. Run the refrigerator empty for 15 to 30 minutes before adding food to make sure it's cooling properly and to clear out any odors that may have developed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Not safely. Temperatures below 50°F can thicken the compressor oil and prevent the refrigerator from starting when you plug it back in. If your garage gets cold, move the refrigerator to a climate-controlled space like a basement or interior closet. If you must store it in an unheated space, wait until spring to use it again and let it warm to room temperature before plugging it in.

Should I leave the doors open or closed during storage?

Leave them open or propped slightly ajar. Closed doors trap moisture and allow odors to build up inside. Open doors let air circulate and prevent mold growth. If you're worried about dust or pests, prop the door open just an inch or two with a doorstop rather than closing it completely.

What happens if I store the refrigerator on its side?

Laying a refrigerator on its side damages the compressor and can cause refrigerant and oil to flow into places they shouldn't be. If this happens, the refrigerator may not cool properly or may not work at all when you try to use it again. Always store it upright, and if it was transported horizontally, let it stand upright for at least 4 hours before plugging it in.

How often should I check on a refrigerator in storage?

Check every two to three months. Plug it in and let it run for 15 to 30 minutes to keep the compressor lubricated. This also gives you a chance to spot problems early and to check that the storage location hasn't become too hot, too cold, or too humid. Unplug it and leave the doors open again when you're done.

Can I use plastic sheeting to cover the refrigerator?

Avoid plastic sheeting—it traps moisture against the exterior and can cause rust on the cabinet. Use a breathable cloth or canvas tarp instead. It protects the refrigerator from dust while allowing air to circulate around the outside of the unit.