How to Clean Refrigerator Ice Maker Tray

Why Cleaning Your Ice Maker Tray Matters

Your ice maker tray is constantly exposed to water, freezing temperatures, and the inside of your freezer — a combination that can lead to mineral scale buildup, mold, mildew, and off-tasting ice over time. If your ice has a strange smell or taste, or you notice discoloration in the tray, it's time for a proper clean.

How Often Should You Clean the Ice Maker Tray?

Clean your ice maker tray every 3–6 months as part of your regular appliance maintenance. If you notice odors, discoloration, or slow ice production, clean it sooner.

What You'll Need

• Ice machine cleaner/descaler
• White vinegar
• Warm water
• Small brush or bottle brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Mild dish soap

For the most effective clean, use a dedicated ice machine cleaner and descaler — it's compatible with all major brands and removes mineral scale, slime, and bacteria that vinegar alone may not fully address. A small bottle brush helps scrub inside the tray cavities and any narrow channels.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Refrigerator Ice Maker Tray

Step 1: Turn Off the Ice Maker

Locate the on/off switch on your ice maker (usually a wire arm or a toggle switch) and turn it off. This stops ice production while you clean.

Step 2: Discard Existing Ice

Empty the ice bin completely. Old ice can absorb freezer odors and should be discarded before you start. This also gives you access to the tray and bin for cleaning.

Step 3: Remove the Ice Tray (If Removable)

Some ice maker trays are removable; others are fixed in place. Check your fridge manual. If removable, lift or twist the tray out according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 4: Wash a Removable Tray

Wash the tray in warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Use a small brush to scrub each ice cube cavity. For mineral deposits, soak the tray in a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water for 15–20 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.

Step 5: Clean a Fixed Tray In Place

If the tray doesn't come out, use a cloth dampened with white vinegar or ice machine cleaner to wipe down all accessible surfaces. Use a small brush to scrub the cavities. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.

Step 6: Run a Cleaning Cycle (If Your Model Supports It)

Many modern ice makers have a self-cleaning cycle. Add the recommended amount of ice machine cleaner to the water reservoir or tray, then run the cycle according to your manual. This flushes the internal components and removes scale from areas you can't reach manually.

Step 7: Clean the Ice Bin

Wash the ice storage bin with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before replacing. Any moisture left in the bin can cause ice to clump or mold to form.

Step 8: Restart the Ice Maker

Replace the tray and bin, turn the ice maker back on, and discard the first 1–2 batches of ice produced. This flushes out any remaining cleaner residue.

How to Remove Mineral Scale from an Ice Maker Tray

White or yellowish crusty deposits are mineral scale from hard water. To remove:

• Soak the tray in undiluted white vinegar for 20–30 minutes.
• Scrub with a brush to loosen deposits.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• For heavy scale, use a commercial ice machine descaler for best results.

Tips to Keep Your Ice Maker Tray Cleaner Longer

• Replace your refrigerator water filter every 6 months — a clogged filter leads to more mineral deposits and off-tasting ice.
• Empty and clean the ice bin every 1–2 months even if the tray looks clean.
• Keep the freezer door sealed properly to prevent odors from affecting the ice.
• If you go on vacation, turn off the ice maker and discard all ice when you return.

Final Thoughts

A clean ice maker tray means fresher, better-tasting ice and a longer-lasting appliance. With a dedicated cleaner and a simple routine every few months, you can keep your ice maker running efficiently and your ice tasting great.