How to Clean Countertop Ice Maker

There’s something oh-so-satisfying about reaching into your countertop ice maker on a sweltering day, only to be greeted by pristine, frosty ice cubes. But, to ensure every ice cube is as clear and clean as a mountain spring, you’ve got to show that little machine some love. Let’s dive into how to clean your countertop ice maker spick and span!

How to Clean Countertop Ice Maker

Table of Contents

1. Frequency Matters

First things first, how often should you clean it? While it’s a good idea to do a quick wipe-down every week, a thorough cleaning should happen every 3-6 months depending on usage.

2. Gather Your Supplies

You don’t need much! Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen:

Warm soapy water
A soft cloth or sponge
White vinegar or a solution of 1 part lemon juice to 1 part water
A soft-bristle brush (like a toothbrush)
A towel
Amazon Ice Machine Cleaner Solution

3. Safety First

Always unplug the ice maker before starting any cleaning process. Safety first!

4. Begin with the Exterior

Using the warm soapy water, wipe down the exterior of the machine. It’s the first line of defense against grime, so keep it gleaming!

5. The Inner Sanctum

Remove any ice and drain the water from the unit. Next, with your vinegar or lemon solution, give the interior a gentle scrub. These natural cleansers work wonders against mineral build-up. For those hard-to-reach areas, the soft-bristle brush is your best friend.

6. Rinse and Repeat

After scrubbing, rinse the interior thoroughly with clean water. Run a few ice-making cycles with fresh water (without using the ice) to ensure all cleaning agents are completely rinsed out.

7. The Ice Tray & Scoop

These often-overlooked components need love too! Remove them and give them a scrub in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry.

8. Let it Breathe

After cleaning, leave the lid or door open for a while. This lets the interior dry completely and prevents any mold or mildew from forming.

9. Maintenance Mode

To prolong the time between deep cleans, always use distilled or purified water. This reduces mineral deposits and keeps your ice tasting fresh.

10. Remember the Filter

If your ice maker has a filter, don’t forget to change it as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring your ice is both clean and tasty.

With these steps in tow, your countertop ice maker will not only last longer but will churn out those perfect, crystalline cubes every time.