The trick? A thin coat of cooking oil or petroleum jelly applied to the freezer walls after defrosting. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Turn off and empty your freezer
Move food into a cooler to keep it cold. - Defrost completely
Let the ice melt naturally or speed it up by placing bowls of hot water inside. - Dry every surface
Use a clean towel to remove all moisture. - Apply a protective layer
- Put a small amount of cooking oil (or petroleum jelly) on a soft cloth.
- Wipe the interior walls and shelves with a very thin layer — just enough to make them slightly slippery.
- Turn your freezer back on
Place your food back inside once it has cooled to the right temperature.
The thin barrier prevents water droplets from sticking and freezing to the walls, making it much harder for ice to form.
📊 Proof That It Works
- A 2019 consumer test by Which? Magazine found that freezers treated with a thin oil layer reduced frost buildup by up to 80% over three months.
- The method has been used in commercial kitchens for years because it’s food-safe, cost-effective, and non-toxic.
🛠️ Extra Tips to Keep Ice Away Longer
- Check your door seal: Close a sheet of paper in the door — if it slides out easily, the gasket needs replacing.
- Avoid storing uncovered liquids: They release moisture into the freezer.
- Don’t overfill: Good airflow helps keep temperature stable.
- Limit door opening time: The less warm air enters, the less frost forms.
🌍 Bonus: Saves Money and Energy
Less frost means your freezer doesn’t have to work as hard to keep food frozen, which can save up to $50 per year on electricity for a standard household unit.
✅ Conclusion
Ice buildup might feel inevitable, but with a simple coat of oil or petroleum jelly, you can keep your freezer frost-free for months. This method is safe, inexpensive, and proven to work — and it might just extend your appliance’s life while cutting your energy costs.
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