How To Remove Foul Fridge Odors

A single spilled food item or forgotten ingredient can quickly fill your refrigerator with some foul fridge odors. However, foul odors can accumulate and linger inside even if your refrigerator is spotless and devoid of expired food.

Bacteria, mold typically cause these offensive odors, and other microbes that thrive in your refrigerator’s dark, moist environment and are frequently undetectable.

If you detect a foul whiff coming from your refrigerator every time you open it, the first step is to identify and discard any expired or noticeably stinky items.

If the smell persists, the best course of action is to empty and thoroughly clean the interior of your refrigerator to remove any residue or spoiled food that you may have missed.

Alternatively, you can use the odor-eliminating power of a few natural ingredients and simple cleaning techniques to eliminate odors from your refrigerator.

Utilize these straightforward methods to eliminate refrigerator odors and leave your refrigerator smelling fresh and clean.

Clean The Drip Pan In The Refrigerator

The drip pan is a simple tray designed to collect condensation from your refrigerator and prevent it from leaking into your kitchen.

While the heat generated by the refrigerator coils usually evaporates this moisture, if an excess of liquid accumulates, it can result in a pool of foul-smelling water.

The drip pan is typically accessible from behind a kick plate in the front or from the back of the refrigerator. Consult the refrigerator owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to locate and access the drip pan.

If you cannot find your guidebook, conduct an online search for the model number. Remove the kick plate or back panel as directed by the manufacturer and clean the drip pan with a cloth or sponge.

If you need to remove the refrigerator from the wall to clean it, unplug the water and power supplies first. Eliminate any standing water in the drip pan and use a diluted bleach or vinegar-water solution to kill mold or mildew.

Rinse or wipe clean the drip pan with a damp cloth, then thoroughly dry it before replacing the panel.

Activated Charcoal Eliminates Refrigerator Odors

Activated charcoal (alternatively referred to as activated carbon) is a fine, black powder that acts like a sponge, absorbing small particles contributing to foul refrigerator odors.

It is frequently used in water filtration systems to remove contaminants from the water, and it also similarly purifies the air.

Activated charcoal sachets ($24,99, Amazon) are available from various retailers. Arrange one on a refrigerator shelf to aid in absorbing moisture and eliminating odors in your refrigerator.

Ventilate The Stinky Fridges

A humid, food-filled refrigerator creates an ideal environment for bacteria and mold to grow, and the tightly sealed interior may allow unpleasant odors to permeate the walls and shelves.

Try airing out your refrigerator to refresh it. All items should be emptied and stored in coolers or if you have one, a second refrigerator. After unplugging and cleaning the refrigerator’s interior, prop the doors open for approximately an hour before restocking.

Make Use Of Baking Soda

While baking soda is well-known for its ability to trap and absorb odors, it is less effective if left in the box. Spray some baking soda on a damp sponge instead of the entire box to increase the surface area and odor-absorbing power.

Put the sponge on a refrigerator rack and top off as needed with baking soda.

Coffee Grounds Can Neutralize Foul Fridge Odors

Coffee has a strong, pleasant aroma that can help mask foul fridge odors. Refrigerate a small bowl of coffee grounds to mask odors with the smell of freshly brewed coffee.

However, coffee can impart an odor to other items in your refrigerator, so avoid storing unpackaged foodstuffs near the coffee grounds.

While these strategies effectively eliminate foul refrigerator odors, you may be dealing with a more severe problem if you’ve exhausted all other options and the smell persists.

Consider contacting a refrigerator technician who can quickly diagnose the issue and restore the fresh smell to your refrigerator.