To apply, sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda over the ice layers and then use a cloth soaked in warm water and talcum powder to scrub the ice.

Let the product sit for 20 minutes and then repeat the process again before breaking up the ice using a mixture of warm water and baking soda to help thaw. For stubborn ice, use a wooden or stiff plastic spatula to thaw manually but without exerting too much force. Then proceed with cleaning, taking care not to scratch surfaces. Rinse with a damp microfibre cloth and dry before switching the device back on.

Remember on this occasion that baking soda is an excellent refrigerator deodoriser.

• Defrosting the fridge with hot water

This hot water technique is even more effective for freezers. To use, boil water and then pour it into a heat-resistant container. Place the latter in the freezer and let the steam act on the walls of the appliance.

If this technique allows you to speed up the defrosting of the device, you will still need to replace the cooling water as you go along. Something you will do more if the walls of the device are covered with particularly thick layers of ice.

• Defrosting the fridge and freezer with a steam cleaner
  The quickest method is to melt and remove the ice with the steam cleaner. With this method, it is possible to have an appliance completely defrosted in about 20 minutes.

These techniques are also an opportunity to remember the importance of taking regular care of the refrigerator to ensure its durability.