How to Get Rid of Unpleasant Odors in the Fridge

Posted by Go Cleaners on June 25, 2024 in How To:

Unpleasant odors in the fridge can be both off-putting and challenging to eliminate. They can permeate your food and create an unappetizing environment. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to tackle this issue and prevent it from recurring. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get rid of unpleasant odors in the fridge.

Identify and Remove the Source

The first step in eliminating fridge odors is to identify and remove the source of the smell.

1. Check Expiry Dates: Go through all the items in your fridge and discard anything that is expired or spoiled.
2. Clean Spills and Leaks: Look for any spills or leaks that might have gone unnoticed. These can harbor bacteria and cause unpleasant smells.

Thorough Cleaning

1. Empty the Fridge: Remove all the contents of your fridge. This includes food, shelves, and drawers.
2. Wash Removable Parts: Take out all removable parts, such as shelves and drawers, and wash them with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly.
3. Clean Interior Surfaces: Wipe down the interior surfaces of the fridge with a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda and a quart of warm water. This solution helps neutralize odors without leaving a harsh chemical smell.
4. Dry Completely: Ensure that all surfaces and removable parts are completely dry before placing them back in the fridge. Moisture can contribute to mold and mildew growth.

Natural Odor Absorbers

1. Baking Soda: Place an open box of baking soda in the fridge. Baking soda is excellent at absorbing odors. For best results, replace the box every three months.
2. Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal is another effective odor absorber. Place a few pieces in a container and leave it in the fridge. It can absorb odors for up to six months.
3. Coffee Grounds: Fresh or used coffee grounds can also help neutralize odors. Place them in a small bowl or container and leave them in the fridge for a few days.
4. Lemon: Cut a lemon in half and place it in a bowl. Leave it in the fridge for a few days to absorb and replace unpleasant odors with a fresh scent.

Regular Maintenance

1. Weekly Check: Make it a habit to check your fridge weekly. Dispose of any food that is starting to go bad and wipe down any spills immediately.
2. Store Food Properly: Store food in airtight containers to prevent odors from escaping. This also helps to keep food fresher for longer.
3. Temperature Control: Ensure your fridge is set to the correct temperature, ideally between 1°C and 4°C. Proper temperature control can prevent food from spoiling quickly and producing odors.

Additional Tips

1. Vanilla Extract: Dampen a cotton ball with vanilla extract and place it in the fridge for a pleasant, fresh scent.
2. Vinegar Solution: Place a cup of white vinegar in the fridge. Vinegar can absorb strong odors effectively.
3. Clean the Drip Pan: Some fridges have a drip pan located at the bottom. Check your fridge’s manual to find and clean this pan, as it can collect stagnant water and contribute to odors.
4. Charcoal Briquettes: You can use charcoal briquettes (without lighter fluid) as an alternative to activated charcoal. Place them in a container and leave them in the fridge to absorb odors.

Professional Help

If odors persist despite your best efforts, it might be time to seek professional cleaning services. Go Cleaners London offers specialized cleaning solutions to tackle stubborn fridge odors and ensure your appliance is in top condition.

By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate unpleasant odors from your fridge and maintain a fresh and clean environment for your food. Regular maintenance and the use of natural odor absorbers can prevent future smells, ensuring your fridge remains a pleasant place for food storage.