How to Clean a Scorch Mark on a Refrigerator Door

Table of Contents:

You Will Need
Steps to Remove the Stain
Additional Tips and Advice

Rod asked: How do I clean a scorch mark on a refrigerator door? My refrigerator door has a small scorch mark near the handle that resulted from accidentally hanging a dish towel that was ignited from the stove on the handle. I discovered the flame and put it out about 10 seconds later. I have tried to remove the mark with soap and water with no success. I have also tried cleaning it with bleach, which worked a little bit. Do you have any suggestions on something that will work better? The refrigerator door is white and appears to be some sort of steel.

This recipe for cleaning fire, smoke or soot damage comes straight from the U.S. Fire Administration. For small messes, cut the ingredients accordingly.

You Will Need:

4-6 tablespoons trisodium phosphate (TSP)
1 cup household cleaner or bleach
1 gallon warm water
Bucket
Cloth scouring pad or rag
Rubber gloves
Eye protection

Steps to Remove the Stain:

If the scorch mark is just discoloration on the surface, you will likely be able to remove it completely. However, if the actual surface was burnt and damaged, it will be possible to improve, but not remove the stains.
Wear rubber gloves when working with TSP and/or bleach. Eye protection is also recommended, especially if you’re working at or above eye level.
Mix TSP, cleaner or bleach and warm water in the bucket.
Use the scouring pad or rag to apply the solution to the scorch mark. If the rag doesn’t work, the slightly more abrasive scouring pad may be more effective.
Once the mark is removed, rinse with clean, warm water.

Additional Tips and Advice

If the scorch mark cannot be cleaned off, it’s possible that the damage is deeper than the surface. You may be able to touch it up and/or hide it with appliance paint.
For larger areas of damage, work from the bottom up to prevent runs.