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How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge: Effective Solutions and Tips for 2026
Published : April 28, 2025, 6:13 PM
Updated : December 23, 2025, 11:28 AM
Author :
Ananth
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Every household deals with refrigerator odours at some point. Whether it's forgotten leftovers hiding in the back corner, spilt liquids, or strong-smelling foods like onions and fish, fridge smells can quickly become unpleasant. These lingering odours aren't just annoying—they can indicate potential food contamination and hygiene issues that might affect your family's health. Fortunately, you don't need expensive cleaners to solve this common problem. In fact, this blog is here to explain how to get rid of smell in fridge without using harmful chemicals. So keep reading.
How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge?
Eliminating refrigerator odours requires cleaning the source of smells and using odour-absorbing methods. The most effective approach combines thorough cleaning with natural deodorisers that continue working to keep your fridge smelling fresh.
| Method | What to Do | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Place an open container on a shelf | General odour maintenance |
| Vinegar Solution | Wipe surfaces with diluted solution | Deep cleaning and disinfecting |
| Lemon Slices | Place fresh slices on a plate | Quick freshening and pleasant scent |
| Activated Charcoal | Set in an open container | Strong, persistent odours |
| Coffee Grounds | Place dried grounds in an open container | Absorbing multiple odors |
| Vanilla Extract on Cotton Balls | Soak cotton balls and place them on a shelf | Pleasant masking scent |
| Newspaper Rolls | Roll up a newspaper and place in the fridge | Absorbing moisture and odors |
What Causes Fridge and Freezer Smells?
Refrigerator odours typically come from food spoilage, where bacteria break down proteins and other compounds in forgotten items. Spills that seep into cracks create hard-to-reach odour sources. Cross-contamination between foods can spread odour-causing bacteria. Freezer burn and improper food wrapping in freezers lead to that distinctive "freezer smell." Even the refrigerator's drainage system can harbour bacteria and mold if not regularly cleaned, contributing to persistent odours.
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge Naturally
Using natural methods to eliminate refrigerator odours is practical, economical, and safer than chemical cleaners. These simple steps can transform even the smelliest fridge into a fresh-smelling appliance.
- Step 1: Empty the refrigerator, discarding any expired or spoiled items.
- Step 2: Remove all shelves and drawers and wash them thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
- Step 3: Wipe down all interior surfaces with a natural cleaning solution of equal water and vinegar.
- Step 4: Target stubborn areas with a paste made from baking soda and water, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping clean.
- Step 5: Place odour absorbers such as an open container of baking soda, fresh lemon slices, or activated charcoal inside.
How to Remove Odour from a Refrigerator Using DIY Solutions?
DIY solutions offer practical alternatives to commercial products for eliminating those nasty smells. These natural methods are non-toxic, inexpensive, and use ingredients you likely already have at home, making them perfect for quick odour elimination or regular maintenance.
How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge with Baking Soda
Baking soda naturally neutralises acidic odours through a chemical reaction. Place an open box or shallow container of baking soda on a middle shelf, replacing it every three months. For more pungent odours, spread baking soda on a plate to increase surface area exposure. You can also make a paste with water to scrub stubborn residue on fridge surfaces.
How to Get Rid of Smell in the Fridge with Lemon
Lemons contain citric acid, which neutralises odours while leaving a pleasant scent. Cut lemons in half and place them cut-side up on plates throughout the refrigerator. Replace every few days for continued freshness. Alternatively, soak cotton balls in lemon juice and put them in small dishes throughout the fridge. Mix lemon juice with water in a spray bottle for a natural surface cleaner.
How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge with Vinegar
White vinegar's acidity helps neutralise alkaline odours and has natural antibacterial properties. Mix water and white vinegar in a spray bottle to clean all surfaces. For persistent odours, place small bowls of vinegar on shelves for 24 hours (while food is removed). Adding a few drops of essential oil like lavender or lemon to the vinegar solution can help mask its strong scent.
How to Remove Bad Smell from Fridge with Coffee Grounds
Dried coffee grounds absorb odours effectively due to their nitrogen content. Place dry, used coffee grounds in a shallow container or small bowl and position on a shelf. For stronger absorption, spread the grounds on a plate to increase surface area. Replace weekly or when the coffee aroma fades. Coffee grounds work particularly well for fish and onion odours.
How to Get Rid of Smell in Freezer with Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has millions of tiny pores that trap odour molecules. Place activated charcoal in an open container in the back of the freezer, where odours tend to concentrate. Charcoal works well in cold temperatures, unlike baking soda, making it ideal for freezers. It's especially effective for eliminating freezer burn odours and can last up to three months before needing replacement.
How to Prevent Fridge Odours from Coming Back
Preventing refrigerator odours is easier than eliminating them after they develop. These simple habits help maintain a fresh-smelling fridge:
- Step 1: Store foods in airtight containers to prevent odour transfer and leakage
- Step 2: Use clear containers to identify contents and prevent forgotten items from easily
- Step 3: Label leftovers with dates to track freshness and avoid spoilage
- Step 4: Implement a weekly "fridge audit" to discard old items before they spoil
- Step 5: Clean spills immediately before they seep into cracks or get sticky
- Step 6: Keep an open container of baking soda in the fridge at all times
- Step 7: Set refrigerator temperature between 35-38°F (1-3°C) to slow bacterial growth
- Step 8: Clean the drip pan and water drainage system quarterly
When to Call for Professional Help?
Sometimes refrigerator odours persist despite thorough cleaning efforts, indicating it might be time for professional intervention:
- Odors return within days despite complete cleaning and deodorising
- Strange mechanical smells (burning rubber, hot plastic) that might indicate electrical issues
- The refrigerator isn't maintaining the proper temperature while emitting unusual odors
- Water is pooling inside or underneath the appliance with associated musty smells
- Visible mold keeps returning despite cleaning with specialised products
- The fridge is more than 10 years old and experiencing multiple issues simultaneously
How NoBroker Can Help with Cleaning Services?
When persistent refrigerator odours become overwhelming, or you lack the time for a thorough cleaning, NoBroker's professional cleaning services offer an efficient solution. Their trained technicians use specialised equipment and eco-friendly cleaning products to deep clean refrigerators, removing stubborn odours at their source. Get complete disassembling of removable parts, cleaning drainage systems and hidden areas where odours typically originate, and deeply clean them with NoBroker’s cleaning services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Baking soda begins absorbing odours immediately, but it typically takes 24-72 hours to notice significant improvement for moderate odours. For strong smells, you may need multiple containers or more frequent replacements.
Ans: Yes, adding a few drops of essential oils like lemon, orange, or peppermint to baking soda or cotton balls can help mask odours while the absorbent material works. Avoid direct contact between oils and food.
Ans: Odors may persist in drainage systems, door gaskets, or the drip pan underneath the refrigerator. The evaporator fan or condenser coils might also harbour mold or bacteria if not regularly cleaned.
Ans: Most households should have a thorough cleaning every 3-4 months. However, homes with multiple users, frequent cooking, or storage of strong-smelling foods may benefit from monthly deep cleans.
Ans: Activated charcoal typically outperforms baking soda for strong odours because it has more surface area to trap odour molecules. It's particularly effective for persistent smells from spoiled meat or fish.
Ans: Yes, new refrigerators often have a "plastic" or "chemical" smell from manufacturing materials. This should dissipate within 1-2 weeks, but can be hastened by wiping interior surfaces with a vinegar solution and using odour absorbers.
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