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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.

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    Difficulty:
    Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Chlorine Bleach
    • Cleaning Cloths
    • All-purpose Cleaners
    • Vinegar
    • Buckets
      • 1

        Remove all items from the refrigerator. Take out any removable parts of the refrigerator and clean them separately.

      • 2

        Mix together 2 tbsp. baking soda with a quart of warm water. Wipe down the inside surfaces of the refrigerator with this solution.

      • 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.

      • 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.

      • 5

        Leave the door open and allow the refrigerator to air out.

    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

    • 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.
    • 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.
    • 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???
    • 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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