A bad smell coming from the fridge can be unpleasant and embarrassing, especially when it affects the freshness of your food. Fridge odors usually develop from spoiled food, spills, strong-smelling items, or poor cleaning habits. Because the fridge is a closed space, smells can linger and spread quickly if not addressed properly. Fortunately, removing bad odors from the fridge is simple when you use the right methods. This article explains effective and practical ways to get smell out of the fridge and keep it fresh at all times.
- Identify the Source of the Smell
Finding the cause is the first step.
- Expired or spoiled food
- Leaking containers
- Forgotten leftovers
- Spilled liquids
- Strong-smelling foods
Removing the source prevents the smell from returning.
- Empty the Fridge Completely
A full clean works best.
- Remove all food items
- Check expiry dates
- Throw away spoiled food
- Store good food in a cooler
An empty fridge allows thorough cleaning.
- Remove Shelves and Drawers
Odors hide in removable parts.
- Take out shelves and drawers
- Wash separately
- Check corners and edges
- Allow them to air dry
Deep cleaning prevents trapped smells.
- Clean the Fridge With Baking Soda Solution
Baking soda neutralizes odors.
- Mix warm water with baking soda
- Wipe all interior surfaces
- Focus on corners and seals
- Dry with a clean cloth
This removes stains and odors gently.
- Use White Vinegar to Kill Odor-Causing Bacteria
Vinegar breaks down smells.
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water
- Wipe inside surfaces
- Clean door seals carefully
- Let the fridge air dry
The vinegar smell fades quickly.
- Pay Attention to the Drain Hole
Blocked drains cause bad smells.
- Locate the drain hole
- Flush with warm water
- Use a thin brush or pipe cleaner
- Clear any buildup
This often solves persistent odors.
- Clean the Fridge Rubber Seals
Seals trap food particles.
- Scrub gently with baking soda
- Use an old toothbrush
- Dry thoroughly
- Check for mold
Clean seals prevent bacteria growth.
- Wash the Drip Tray Under the Fridge
Hidden odors come from the drip tray.
- Locate the tray underneath
- Remove and wash with soap
- Dry completely
- Replace carefully
This step is often overlooked.
- Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Natural items absorb smells effectively.
- Baking soda in an open bowl
- Activated charcoal
- Coffee grounds
- White vinegar in a cup
Leave inside the fridge continuously.
- Try Lemon for a Fresh Smell
Lemon adds freshness.
- Place lemon slices in a bowl
- Use lemon peels
- Combine with baking soda
- Replace every few days
This keeps the fridge smelling clean.
- Use Vanilla Extract for Pleasant Fragrance
Vanilla neutralizes strong odors.
- Dip cotton balls in vanilla
- Place on a small plate
- Leave in fridge overnight
- Replace when scent fades
This works well for mild odors.
- Clean Food Containers Before Putting Them Back
Dirty containers cause smells.
- Wash containers thoroughly
- Dry before use
- Avoid cracked containers
- Seal food tightly
Clean storage reduces odor buildup.
- Store Strong-Smelling Foods Properly
Certain foods need extra care.
- Use airtight containers
- Double-wrap strong foods
- Store raw meat securely
- Label leftovers
Proper storage prevents odor spread.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Fridge
Airflow keeps food fresh.
- Do not overload shelves
- Leave space for circulation
- Organize food properly
- Remove unnecessary items
Good airflow reduces odors.
- Check the Freezer for Odors
Freezers can also smell.
- Remove old frozen food
- Clean freezer shelves
- Use baking soda inside
- Check freezer drain
A clean freezer prevents odor transfer.
- Maintain a Regular Cleaning Routine
Consistency keeps smells away.
- Wipe spills immediately
- Clean weekly
- Check expiry dates often
- Replace odor absorbers regularly
Routine cleaning prevents buildup.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Strong chemicals are unnecessary.
- Avoid bleach inside the fridge
- Do not mix cleaning agents
- Use food-safe cleaners
- Rinse surfaces properly
Natural cleaners are safer and effective.
- Prevent Future Fridge Smells
Prevention saves time.
- Cover all food
- Label leftovers with dates
- Keep baking soda inside
- Clean monthly
Simple habits keep the fridge fresh.
- When Odors Won’t Go Away
Persistent smells may need extra attention.
- Repeat deep cleaning
- Replace old seals
- Check hidden components
- Contact appliance service if needed
Some odors indicate mechanical issues.
Also Read: How To Get Rid Of Ticks In My Yard
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
