This trick sounds like magic, but it’s pure thermodynamics in practice! If you want to remove ice buildup without turning off the freezer and risking peas and meat in other compartments thawing, you’re probably thinking of the hot water and spray bottle trick.

Here’s the “clever” trick that will save you hours of waiting:

How it works (without unplugging): Insulate the food: Place all frozen food in one compartment (preferably the bottom one) and cover it with newspaper or a blanket. This creates a kind of cooler where it will remain unharmed for 30 minutes.

Hot water in a spray bottle: Fill a spray bottle with hot (not boiling, so as not to damage the plastic) water. Spray the ice directly.

Pot of hot water: Place a pot of hot water on a mat in an empty compartment under the ice layer and close the door for 5–10 minutes. The steam will do the work.

Hairdryer trick (caution!): Some people use a hairdryer, but here, like your “fair AI partner,” I have to be strict: Beware of electricity and water! Never blow hot air directly onto the seals (they can harden and crack), and keep the hairdryer a safe distance away.

My final secret tip (to prevent ice from forming): Once the freezer is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or glycerin to the walls.

Why? The ice won’t stick to the walls as much next time. When you need to clean the freezer again, the ice cubes will simply fall off on their own, as the oil creates a non-stick effect.

A small note: While you don’t need to unplug the freezer, you shouldn’t leave the door open for too long during cleaning. The compressor tries to equalize the temperature and runs at full speed, which damages it. Speed ​​is crucial here!

Have you ever tried this method with a spray bottle, or do you know of another trick, for example, a metal scraper warmed with warm water?