Why Does a Refrigerator Smell and How to Clean It Properly

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Why does the refrigerator smell?

Unwanted odors in a fridge come from several causes. Spoiled foods or items that have passed their expiration date are common culprits. Fresh meals stored improperly can also release strong odors if they aren’t kept in airtight containers. When air is trapped, the scent tends to spread through the entire compartment quickly.

Beyond expired food, other sources of odor include:

  • The drain hole becoming clogged. Many refrigerators rely on a drainage system to remove condensation. If the drain hole on the back wall collects dust, dirt, or food particles, it can stagnate and emit a sour smell. Periodic checks and cleaning of the drain and the accompanying water collection tray help prevent this issue.
  • Mold formation. Mold tends to appear when the fridge is washed infrequently or surfaces are not wiped down. Spilled liquids and residue left on shelves or in corners encourage mold growth, often around rubber seals. Regular cleaning and weekly shelf wipe-downs minimize this risk.
  • A new refrigerator. Some strong chemical odors can arise when a brand-new unit has not had its interior aired out and wiped down after purchase.

How to clean the refrigerator properly

Before tackling odors, prepare the appliance. Always switch off the unit and defrost as needed. The guidance applies to both old and modern refrigerators.

  1. Remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer. Thorough cleaning works best with completely empty compartments. Even foods kept in containers with tightly sealed lids should be removed to ensure a deep clean.

2. Wash every shelf and drawer thoroughly. Remove shelves, drawers, and trays. Clean each item with soapy water, dry with a clean towel, and allow them to dry completely before returning them. Wet components should not go back into the fridge.

3. Clean the interior of the fridge and freezer. In addition to the drawers, wipe the main compartments, paying attention to all corners, walls, and side panels to remove odors. Use cleaning tools that suit the durability of the surfaces. Options include odor-neutral gels, dish soap, or household remedies discussed later.

4. Clean the drain hole. A cotton swab or disposable syringe works well. If using a syringe, fill it with cleaning solution, insert into the hole, and rinse. Repeat several times. Flush with clean water to remove residue and odor.

5. Ventilate and dry. After cleaning, allow the space to air out for at least an hour. Once dry, replace items in their proper places and power on the refrigerator.

Three effective methods to remove persistent odors

The most reliable and safe options involve simple cleaning solutions such as vinegar, ammonia, or citric acid. These break down lingering odors and refresh plastic surfaces over time.

Important tip

Wear rubber gloves during cleaning. Vinegar, ammonia, or citric acid can irritate skin through minor cuts or dryness, so protection is wise.

Vinegar

Vinegar neutralizes odors absorbed by plastic. It can handle strong smells from spoiled foods. Use a diluted solution to protect coatings on appliances: mix one tablespoon vinegar with 250 ml water. Wipe all walls and drawers with a soft cloth, avoiding seals which can be damaged by vinegar. For rubber components, other cleaners may be preferable. After washing, air the fridge for several hours.

Ammonia

Ammonia is strong enough to tackle tough odors. Mix alcohol with water in a 1:2 ratio, then wipe shelves, walls, and freezer areas. A cotton swab helps reach tight crevices around rubber seals. This treatment reduces odor and microbial presence. Afterward, rinse surfaces with clean water to remove any residue. Leave the door open for a day if possible to dissipate the strong scent; otherwise keep it running overnight.

Citric acid

Citric acid helps combat fishy or sharp odors. Prepare a solution with two teaspoons of citric acid dissolved in 250 ml warm water. Use it to rinse all surfaces, walls, trays, and drawers. Citric acid is gentler on smell and typically requires about an hour to dissipate.

Baking soda is also a traditional cleaner. It helps lift old stains and neutralize mild odors, restoring some brightness to surfaces. Toothpaste can be used for light deodorizing on affected areas, though it is less effective for entrenched smells.

Quick odor relief when time is short

If a full cleaning isn’t possible, several quick-fix options can help maintain freshness. Odor absorbers, available in stores or online, work well in both households and offices.

Folk remedies

Tea bags placed on multiple shelves, including closed compartments, absorb odors and leave a fresh scent. Replace tea bags about every week.

Coffee beans or grounds reduce faint odors. Place them in a small dish inside the fridge for a few days to enjoy a subtle aroma.

Black bread can neutralize strong garlic odors by placing chunks on shelves. Fresh-cut vegetables and fruits such as potatoes, onions, apples, or lemons sliced and placed inside help balance aromas.

On average, natural absorbers should be replaced every 2–3 days to maintain effectiveness.

Modern odor control products

Commercial odor neutralizers target persistent smells. They can be bought at hardware stores or markets and usually last 1–2 months. Ozonizers destroy odors and kill molds, potentially extending the shelf life of stored foods. Silica gel sachets or other deodorizers are convenient options and should be refreshed every two weeks.

Preventing unpleasant odors in the refrigerator

Prevention is simpler than remediation. Practical steps include:

  • Daily checks of expiration dates and disposal of spoiled items promptly.
  • Avoid placing hot dishes in the fridge to prevent condensation, which promotes mold growth in humid conditions.
  • Be mindful of safety dates. Perishables such as mayonnaise-based salads should be consumed within a day, while fresh meat and fish are best within 72 hours.
  • Use natural or commercial absorbers like tea bags, citrus peels, brown bread, or ozone devices to help keep odors under control.
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