You open the fridge and a strange smell greets you: it happens in the best kitchens and it has a fix. If you're looking for how to remove fridge smell quickly and without pricey products, here's a complete guide. We'll explain why that smell appears, how to get rid of fridge odour with baking soda and other home remedies that really work, and how to leave the inside clean and fresh. With a few minutes and what you already have in the pantry, your refrigerator will smell clean again and your food will keep much better.
Why the fridge smells bad
Bad smells almost always come from food scraps, spilled liquids or expired food that ferments. Moisture and cold concentrate those odours, which also cling to the plastic walls and the rubber seals. A poorly sealed container, a piece of cured cheese or some off vegetables are enough to make the whole refrigerator smell. Badly regulated low temperatures and a lack of ventilation play a part too. Pinpointing the source is the first step: check the drawers, shelves and the back before you start cleaning.
How to remove fridge smell with baking soda
Baking soda is the natural deodoriser par excellence, because it neutralises odours instead of masking them. There are two ways to use it:
- In an open bowl. Put two or three tablespoons of baking soda in a small glass or bowl and leave it on a shelf. It will absorb odours for weeks; replace it once a month.
- For cleaning. Dissolve a tablespoon of baking soda in a litre of warm water and wipe every surface. It removes dirt and smell at the same time.
It's cheap, leaves no residue and is completely safe around food.
Home remedies for a smelly fridge
If you prefer alternatives, there are several home remedies for a smelly fridge that are just as effective:
- Lemon. Half a lemon on a shelf adds a fresh scent and helps neutralise strong odours.
- Ground coffee. A bowl of dry coffee grounds absorbs stubborn smells very well.
- White vinegar. Clean the surfaces with a mix of equal parts water and vinegar; it disinfects and removes bad smells.
- Activated charcoal. Placed in a container, it traps the most stubborn odours; ideal if the problem is constant.
How to clean the fridge inside step by step
To remove fridge smell from the inside for good, a thorough empty-out now and then helps:
- Turn off or unplug the fridge and take out all the food.
- Remove the shelves and drawers and wash them with warm water and mild soap.
- Clean the inside with the water and baking soda solution, not forgetting the rubber seals, where mould builds up.
- Dry all the surfaces well before putting it back together; moisture encourages smells.
- Put the food back, checking the expiry dates.
Do it every one or two months and you'll notice the difference.
How to stop the fridge smelling bad again
- Always store food in airtight containers.
- Check every week and throw out anything that has gone off.
- Clean up any spill straight away.
- Keep a bowl of baking soda in there permanently.
- Don't overload the fridge: air needs to circulate.
You can organise it all with practical containers and accessories you'll find in our home store, designed to keep the kitchen tidy.
As you can see, knowing how to remove fridge smell is simple: find the source, clean with baking soda or vinegar and keep up a few basic habits. With these tips, your refrigerator will smell clean, your food will last longer and opening the door will no longer be an unpleasant surprise. And if you want to keep getting your kitchen in shape, take a look at the rest of Velia Select's home ideas.