How to Get Rid of Bad Smell in the Fridge
A foul odor in the fridge can be unpleasant and might even make your food taste off. Fortunately, eliminating these smells is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide from our experienced cleaning team to help you eliminate bad smells in your fridge and keep it smelling fresh.
Empty the Fridge Completely
To tackle any odor issue effectively, you need to start emptying the fridge. Remove all food items and place perishables in a cooler with ice to keep them fresh while you clean. Check each item for spoilage, as old or expired food is often the main culprit behind bad smells. Discard anything that looks questionable or has passed its expiration date.
Deep Clean the Interior
Once the fridge is empty, it’s time to deep clean the interior. Use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap or a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon of baking soda in 4 cups of water). Remove all shelves, drawers, and other removable parts and soak them in soapy water. Wipe the inside walls, ceiling, and door seals with a sponge or microfiber cloth. Be sure to get into all the corners and crevices where food particles might hide.
If there’s stubborn residue, such as spilled liquids or stuck-on food, use a soft-bristle brush or a plastic scraper to gently scrub the area. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can leave strong scents that may linger or transfer to your food.
Deodorize with Baking Soda or Charcoal
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that works wonders for eliminating odors. After cleaning the fridge, place an open box of baking soda on a shelf to absorb any lingering smells. For stronger odors, activated charcoal is an excellent alternative. You can find activated charcoal in pet stores or online. Place it in a shallow container or bowl and leave it in the fridge for a few days to neutralize stubborn odors.
You can also try placing a few slices of lemon or a small bowl of coffee grounds inside the fridge, as both have natural odor-absorbing properties and can leave a fresh scent.
Clean the Drip Tray and Drain
Many refrigerators have a drip tray or drain that collects moisture. Over time, food particles or liquids can accumulate here and cause unpleasant odors. Check your fridge’s user manual to locate the drip tray, and clean it thoroughly with warm, soapy water. If your fridge has a drain, flush it with baking soda and warm water to remove blockages and prevent foul smells from building up.
Air Out the Fridge
Once you’ve cleaned and deodorized the fridge, let it air for a few hours. Leave the fridge door open and allow fresh air to circulate. This helps remove any remaining odors and ensures the interior is completely dry before restocking the fridge.
Keep Future Smells at Bay
After getting rid of the bad smell, there are steps you can take to prevent odors from returning:
– Cover Strong-Smelling Foods: Foods like cheese, onions, and garlic can cause lingering smells in the fridge. Store these items in airtight containers to contain their odors.
– Clean Spills Immediately: Any spills, especially from liquids like milk or juice, should be wiped up as soon as possible to prevent odors from developing.
– Keep an Odor Absorber: Even after cleaning, it’s a good idea to keep a small bowl of baking soda, activated charcoal, or coffee grounds in the fridge to absorb any new smells. Replace these every few months.
– Organize the Fridge: A well-organized fridge allows you to spot any potential problems, such as spoiled food, before they cause an odor issue. Regularly check the contents of your fridge and discard expired or spoiled items promptly.
Check the Freezer
If the bad smell persists after cleaning the fridge, the issue could be coming from the freezer. Freezer odors can transfer to the fridge, especially in models with a shared air system. Follow the same cleaning steps for the freezer: empty it, clean all surfaces with soapy water or a baking soda solution, and place an odor absorber inside.
Conclusion
Getting rid of bad smells in the fridge is easy when you follow these simple steps. By thoroughly cleaning the interior, using natural deodorizers, and maintaining good food storage practices, you can ensure your fridge stays fresh and odor-free. Regular cleaning and organization will help prevent future odors and keep your fridge a pleasant place to store your food.
