How to Get Rid of The Smell in Your Fridge and Freezer: 3 Foolproof Home Remedies to Try!

Refrigerators and freezers are the unsung heroes of our kitchens, diligently working round the clock to keep our food and prepped meals fresh and safe. Whether it’s preserving the remnants of last night's dinner or safeguarding our beloved ice cream, these appliances play a crucial role in our culinary lives. Yet, despite our best efforts at cleanliness and maintenance, they sometimes betray us with unpleasant odors. The mystery of why your pristine fridge is suddenly emitting a rotten, chemical, or downright foul smell can leave you scratching your head. Let's dive into the whys and hows of banishing these odors once and for all.

Why Do Fridges and Freezers Emit Bad Smells?

Even the cleanest fridge can sometimes smell like it’s hosting a science experiment gone wrong. The primary culprits behind these odious odors are usually spoiled food, mold, and mildew. Forgotten leftovers or vegetables that have decided to transform into a new life form at the back of the fridge can release pungent gases. Additionally, spilt liquids that aren’t cleaned up promptly can seep into crevices, providing a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Freezers aren’t immune either. Sometimes, poorly wrapped food can get freezer burn, emitting strange smells. Moreover, if your freezer’s defrosting mechanism isn’t working correctly, stagnant water can become a source of musty odors. In short, anything that’s past its prime or isn’t sealed correctly can contribute to your fridge or freezer’s transformation into a smell factory.

How to Get Rid of The Bad Smells Naturally

So, your fridge smells like something crawled in there and died, and you’re desperately seeking solutions. Fear not, the answer might just be lying around in your kitchen. One tried-and-true remedy is lemon and baking soda. A cut lemon placed on a shelf can help neutralize odors, while an open box of baking soda can absorb unwanted smells faster than your sponge absorbs water. Just remember to replace the baking soda every few months for it to stay effective.

Vinegar, another kitchen staple, is also a powerhouse against fridge odors. Wipe down the interior with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Not only does it disinfect, but it also leaves your fridge smelling fresh and clean. If you’re feeling adventurous, a bowl of coffee grounds can also work wonders. They’ll absorb smells while giving your fridge a pleasant, coffee-shop aroma.

How to Get Rid of The Chemical Smells

Chemical smells in your fridge can be particularly worrisome. They often originate from cleaning products, plastic containers, or even the materials used in the fridge itself. The first step is to ensure you’re using food-safe cleaning products. If a chemical smell persists, thoroughly airing out your fridge might be necessary. Unplug it, open the doors, and let it breathe for a few hours.

Activated charcoal is another excellent odor absorber for chemical smells. Place a few pieces in your fridge, and they’ll work like magic to neutralize those harsh scents. Charcoal is so effective; it’s almost like having a mini detox spa for your fridge.

How to Deal With the Foul Odors After a Power Outage

Few things are worse than coming home after a power outage to find your fridge smells like a forgotten science project. Without power, food can spoil quickly, and the resulting odors can be tough to eliminate. The first step is to discard any perishable items that have gone bad – trust us, if it smells off, it’s safer in the bin than in your stomach.

Once you’ve cleared out the offending items, clean all surfaces with a mixture of baking soda and water. This will help to scrub away any lingering residues. If the smell persists, place a few bowls of baking soda, lemon halves, or coffee grounds inside and let them sit for a day or two. For particularly stubborn smells, you might need to resort to a commercial fridge deodorizer.