How to Get Rid of Freezer Odor

In a place where food is stored, foul odors can put a damper on one's appetite. Freezer odors are often the result of food that was improperly packaged or spoiled. In a small confined space, odors can easily linger for a long time. Removing these odors is more time consuming than it is difficult. Armed with the right information and a few materials, your freezer can once again be odor free.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic ice scraper
• Clean dry towel
• Chlorine bleach
• Clean cloth
• Toothbrush

Instructions

1. Remove everything from the freezer and unplug it.

2. Scrape away as much ice buildup as possible with a plastic scraper. This will help to prevent puddles of water as the ice thaws.

3. Wipe away excess moisture with a dry clean towel.

4. Mix a ½ cup of chlorine bleach with a gallon of warm water.

5. Wash the inside of the freezer with a clean cloth dipped in the solution.

6. Use a toothbrush dipped in the solution to clean the rubber gasket on the door.

7. "Rinse" the freezer with a clean damp cloth soaked in clean water.

8. Leave the door open and allow it to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• For lingering odors, crumple up newspapers and fill the freezer with them. Close the freezer and leave the newspaper inside for at least 24 hours.

• Make sure that all food stored in the freezer is packaged well. Rips or tears in packaging can lead to more odors.

• If the smell persists after cleaning and won't go away, it could be in the insulation. Call a professional to have the insulation replaced.

References

• Removing Freezer Odors
• Food Safety: Removing Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers