How to Remove Odors From a Refrigerator
Refrigerator odors are a common problem, with an easy solution. But remember that prevention is the key - clean and defrost your refrigerator every few months to keep those odors from coming back.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Chlorine Bleach
- Cleaning Cloths
- All-purpose Cleaners
- Vinegar
- Buckets
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1
Remove all items from the refrigerator. Take out any removable parts of the refrigerator and clean them separately.
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2
Mix together 2 tbsp. baking soda with a quart of warm water. Wipe down the inside surfaces of the refrigerator with this solution.
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3
Try a solution of 1 c. vinegar and 1 gallon of water, if the odor remains. Make sure to rinse and dry all surfaces before trying this solution.
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4
Mix 1/2 c. chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of water and apply to all surfaces, if the odor persists. Once again, rinse and dry all surfaces before applying this solution.
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5
Leave the door open and allow the refrigerator to air out.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Don't mix solutions; use them one at a time, rinsing and drying all surfaces between applications.
If you can turn off the refrigerator or place it on a low setting, try leaving a bowl of cat litter or activated charcoal briquettes inside to absorb odors.
Keep an open package of baking soda or coffee grounds in the refrigerator for long-term odor removal.
To prevent new odors, remember to throw away food when it spoils.
If the odor is in the refrigerator insulation, there is nothing you can do to absorb it. The insulation may have to be replaced.
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Comments
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clevelandgirl
Dec 23, 2009
Use what movers use when moving a refrigerator. Coffee grounds in a plastic container (old butter contatiner)poke holes in lid. If odor is real bad leave the lid off, jus becareful not to spill it. It really works! -
LW-Glendora
Nov 09, 2007
To really clean and sanitize your refrigerator, use one full capful of Listerine Original Gold (or store brand look alike) in a large mixing bowl with warm water for a surprising fresh and hospital sanitized refrigerator. If mold or other creepy things have found a home inside your refrigerator, remove ALL foodstuffs and use ½ cup household bleach in a glass mixing bowl of warm water to scrub and neutralize undetected or known germs/mold. Be certain to use a scrub brush on all seams, corners and walls to loosen locked on food particles. When bleach cycle is completed, follow with a rinse-then dry everything inside-thoroughly Use Listerine GOLD mixed with water in a sprayer-for cleanups. Give Refig the "Dollar Bill" in the closed door test-to check for good sealing. IF the dollar bill can be pulled out-the source of smells could be from a poor seal and heat seep.
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KenG
Aug 10, 2007
Refrigerator odors - I found the very best product made just for this called FRIDGE IT. It is a little inexpensive fragrance free activated carbon filter that I buy at Linens N Things. Fantastic and no chemicals or spills and works so much better than baking soda. I use this product around the house now to get rid of lots of problem odors around trash and litter box.
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cocorowe
Jul 02, 2007
Does anyone know how to clean a defrost pan that is not removeable? I have a side by side and I've located the pan by removing the grill on the bottom of the fridge. I have a stink coming from there and I'm sure it's the pan but I can't take it out! I know I could put some belac or baking soda in it and hope for the best but I'd really prefer to take it out and scrub it. How do I do it without breaking the pan???
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cocorowe
Jul 02, 2007
Does anyone know how to clean a defrost pan that is not removeable? I have a side by side and I've located the pan by removing the grill on the bottom of the fridge. I have a stink coming from there and I'm sure it's the pan but I can't take it out! I know I could put some belac or baking soda in it and hope for the best but I'd really prefer to take it out and scrub it. How do I do it without breaking the pan???
