A smelly fridge is one of the most common kitchen problems. Here's a step-by-step guide to identifying the cause and permanently removing fridge odours — not just masking them.
Step 1: Find and Remove the Source
No amount of deodorising works if the smell source remains. Remove everything from your fridge and check for:
- Expired or rotting food (check hidden areas behind drawers)
- Spills in crisper drawers that have dried and fermented
- Old leftovers pushed to the back
- Cheese or meat past its use-by date
- Leaking packaging
Step 2: Deep Clean the Interior
Remove all shelves, drawers, and door compartments. Wash them separately in warm soapy water. For the interior walls and surfaces:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda with 1 litre of warm water
- Wipe all interior surfaces, paying attention to corners, door seals, and underneath shelves
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean cloth
Step 3: Clean the Door Seal
Fridge door seals (gaskets) trap moisture, food particles, and mould. Use an old toothbrush dipped in bicarbonate solution to scrub inside the seal folds. This is a commonly overlooked odour source.
Step 4: Use Bicarbonate of Soda as an Ongoing Absorber
Place an open box of bicarbonate of soda on a shelf. It absorbs ongoing odours from food. Replace it every 1-3 months. This is the most effective ongoing odour preventer.
Step 5: Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal sachets are even more powerful than bicarbonate of soda for neutralising strong odours. Place a sachet in the fridge. Available from health stores and online.
Step 6: Vanilla Extract
Soak a cotton ball in vanilla extract and leave it in the fridge for 24-48 hours. This is a short-term solution that makes the fridge smell pleasant while other treatments take effect.
Step 7: Coffee Grounds
Place a small bowl of dry, unused coffee grounds in the fridge overnight. Coffee is a powerful odour absorber. Remove after 24 hours.
Preventing Fridge Odours Long-Term
- Store strong-smelling foods (cheese, fish, onions) in airtight containers
- Check expiry dates weekly
- Clean the crisper drawers monthly
- Keep an open bicarbonate of soda box in the fridge at all times
- Wipe spills immediately
When Odour Persists Despite Cleaning
If odour persists after thorough cleaning, the smell may be coming from the drip pan under or behind the fridge. Pull the fridge out and clean this pan — it accumulates condensation and can become a source of bacterial growth.
Time for a New Fridge?
If your fridge is old and persistently smelly despite thorough cleaning, it may be time for an upgrade. Browse our quality range at oceaniaappliances.com.au/collections/fridges. Free Sydney delivery.