When I was a freshman in college and it was time to leave for winter break, my RA kept reminding everyone that we had to shut off our mini fridges. So, on the day I left, I pulled the plug, packed my suitcase, and left.

But please, whatever you do, don't do this. It turns out there's actually a process to turning off your mini-fridge. If you don't follow the process correctly, you'll probably return to campus with water in and all around the fridge, a terrible smell, and even some mold. No one wants this, so instead, follow these quick and easy steps!

Remove all items from the fridge and freezer

beer, pizza, tea, coffee
Katherine O'Malley

No, it won't last. If you even have to ask yourself, either eat/drink it now, throw it away, or store it in a dorm fridge that will be kept on. 

Lay a thick towel on the bottom of the mini-fridge

beer, tea, pizza, coffee
Katherine O'Malley

When you unplug the fridge, all the ice from the freezer section will melt and it will get water everywhere. This towel will soak up the water to avoid that. Some mini fridges have a tray that collects this water; if yours does, use that and just watch it to make sure it doesn't overflow.

Unplug the mini fridge with the door(s) open

liquor, alcohol, coffee, wine
Katherine O'Malley

It's all come down to this, folks. Unplug the fridge and leave the door to the fridge and freezer open. Leave the fridge to defrost overnight, or until all the ice in the freezer compartment has melted and the interior is at room temperature.

Clean out the inside

sandwich
Katherine O'Malley

Use a dry towel or rag to wipe off all the extra moisture on the inside and any crumbs or dirt. This is a great time to clean your fridge, because we all know it needs a little freshening up. 

Close the door and say sayonara

You're done! Leave the fridge unplugged, close the door, and say sayonara to your dorm room. Now you'll come back to a clean, fresh mini fridge. No smell, mold, or leaking. Score.