You can clean the ice bin in place

You can clean the ice bin without pulling it out — just melt the ice and wipe it down.

First, turn off the ice maker. If your fridge has a “clean” or “ice off” setting, use it. If not, unplug or flip the metal wire arm up so it stops making ice. Then either use up or toss the ice that’s already in the bin.

Now pour warm water directly into the bin. Not boiling — warm tap water is fine. Let it sit for a few minutes so the remaining ice loosens and any stuck bits soften. Then drain or scoop out the water. Wipe the inside with a soft cloth or sponge dipped in warm water with a little vinegar. Vinegar cuts grime and kills smells without leaving soap residue.

Rinse with a clean damp cloth and dry it well before turning the ice maker back on. Mildew and stale smells usually come from water left sitting, so dry is the whole game.

Don’t use harsh cleaners or scrubbers. You don’t want any chemical taste in your ice, and scratched plastic just gives mold more places to hide. If the bin is truly gross, check your manual — many “fixed” bins are actually removable after a little twist or lift, so you might be overcomplicating it.