How To Get Rid Of Bad Smell In The Fridge
Did you know that the average American household wastes around 40% of their food? Unfortunately, this often leads to unpleasant odors lingering in your fridge. But don’t worry; there’s a solution! In this article, we will show you how to get rid of those nasty smells and keep your fridge smelling fresh and clean.

First things first, it’s important to remove any food spills or spoiled items that may be causing the odor. Then, use natural odor absorbers like baking soda or activated charcoal to eliminate any remaining smells. Don’t forget to deep clean the interior of your fridge with a mixture of water and vinegar.
Another key step is checking and cleaning the drain pan, which can collect bacteria and contribute to unpleasant odors. Lastly, maintaining good fridge hygiene practices, such as regularly wiping down shelves and storing food properly, can help prevent future odors.
By following these simple steps from our whole house deep cleaning experts, you’ll be able to banish those bad smells from your fridge once and for all! So let’s get started on creating a fresh-smelling refrigerator that you’ll love opening every time.
Remove and Clean Food Spills and Spoiled Items
Remove any food spills or spoiled items to eliminate odors in your fridge. Use cleaning techniques such as wiping down shelves and drawers with a water and vinegar mixture to sanitize and deodorize. Check all containers for signs of spoilage and discard anything that looks or smells off.
Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Combat unpleasant odors in your refrigerator by utilizing natural odor absorbers. Home remedies and DIY solutions can effectively eliminate bad smells without harsh chemicals. Baking soda is a popular option that can be placed in an open container or sprinkled on a plate to absorb odors. Activated charcoal, coffee grounds, and white vinegar also neutralize fridge odors. Experiment with these natural options to find the best solution for your fridge.
Deep Clean the Fridge Interior
When you open the refrigerator, a wave of freshness will greet you as you delve into the deep-cleaned interior. Regularly cleaning the fridge interior is essential to eliminate fridge odors and ensure proper refrigerator maintenance, even if you have a busy schedule. Start by removing all items and discarding expired foods. Then, mix a solution of water and mild detergent to wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, drawers, and walls. Remember to clean the rubber gasket and vents for a truly odor-free fridge.
After deep cleaning the fridge interior, it would also be a good idea to set some time aside for a deep clean for all kitchen surfaces.
Check and Clean the Drain Pan
As you peer underneath your refrigerator, take a moment to inspect and clean the often-overlooked drain pan. This small but crucial component collects condensation and water from the fridge but can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and odors if neglected. To clean it, remove any debris or standing water, then wipe it down with a mixture of warm soapy water. Regularly cleaning the drain pan will help prevent future odors in your fridge.
Maintain Good Fridge Hygiene Practices
To keep your fridge lean and fresh, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene practices by regularly wiping down shelves and drawers with a mild disinfectant solution.
For example, if you accidentally spill some tomato sauce in the fridge, quickly cleaning it up will prevent any lingering odors and keep your other food items safe from contamination.
Preventing cross-contamination:
- Store raw meats on the bottom shelf to avoid drips onto other foods.
- Use separate containers or bags to store different types of food.
Organizing fridge contents:
- Keep similar food items together for easy access.
- Label containers with dates to ensure freshness.