You open the door and that sour whiff hits you, the one that gets into everything. Knowing how to get rid of fridge smells is easier than it looks, and in most cases you can fix it with things you already have at home. In this guide we explain why your fridge smells, how to clean it thoroughly and which tricks keep it smelling fresh for far longer.
Why your fridge smells
Before you get stuck in, it helps to understand why your fridge smells. The source is almost always the same: food that has gone off, spilled residue or uncovered food releasing odours. Cold slows decomposition but does not stop it, so a jar forgotten at the back eventually taints everything else.
Several things make the problem worse:
- Out-of-date food hidden in the drawers or at the back of the shelves.
- Spilled liquids that seep into the joints and the door seals.
- Uncovered food, especially cheese, cured meats, fish or onion.
- Too much moisture and poor airflow when the fridge is packed full.
How to get rid of fridge smells step by step
To remove the smell at the root, masking it is not enough: you have to clean. Here is how to do a proper deep clean:
- Empty it completely. Take out all the food and throw away anything out of date or suspect.
- Unplug it and take out the shelves. Wash the shelves and drawers with warm water and a little washing-up liquid.
- Clean the inside. Wipe the walls, seals and corners with a cloth dampened in a mix of warm water and vinegar.
- Dry everything well. Do not put anything damp back in, because moisture encourages bad smells.
- Check the drain hole. That small opening at the back tends to collect dirt; clean it out with a cotton bud.
Getting rid of fridge smells with bicarbonate of soda
The star trick for getting rid of fridge smells with bicarbonate of soda is as simple as it is effective. Bicarbonate of soda absorbs odours rather than covering them up, and it lasts for weeks. All you have to do is put a glass or an open container with a couple of tablespoons of bicarbonate on a shelf and leave it there. Replace it every month.
Other natural absorbers that work very well:
- Ground coffee in a bowl: neutralises strong smells within a couple of days.
- Half a lemon studded with a few cloves, for a fresh scent.
- Activated charcoal, highly absorbent and with no smell of its own.
- Vinegar in a small glass, ideal straight after cleaning to finish the job.
Tricks to keep the fridge smelling good
Once it is clean, keeping it fresh comes down to habits. These tricks for a good-smelling fridge will save you a lot of unpleasant surprises:
- Store food in airtight containers or glass jars with lids.
- Go through the fridge once a week and throw out whatever is about to turn.
- Wipe up any spill straight away, without waiting for it to dry.
- Do not put hot food in: it creates condensation and moisture.
- Organise by zones so the air circulates and you can see everything at a glance.
Having proper airtight containers and the right organisers makes a real difference. In our shop you will find kitchenware and storage solutions that help you keep food better and the fridge spotless.
In short
To get rid of fridge smells, start with a deep clean using water and vinegar, rely on bicarbonate of soda as a natural absorber and build good storage habits. With airtight containers and a weekly check, your fridge will smell fresh all year. And if you are after practical kitchenware, take a look at our home selection.