How to remove odors from fridge is a common concern when spoiled food, leaking packets or hidden spills leave an unpleasant smell inside. These odors can spread quickly and make even fresh food smell bad. Fortunately, you can get rid of them with a few simple cleaning methods and everyday household ingredients.

The key is to identify the source of the smell, clean the affected areas and prevent odors from returning. Here are some practical ways to keep your refrigerator fresh.

Here are practical ways to get rid of refrigerator odors and keep your fridge fresh.

1. Find and Remove the Source of the Smell

Before using any cleaning product or odor absorber, find out what is causing the smell. A refrigerator can hold odors from spoiled vegetables, old leftovers, leaking milk packets, fish, meat and forgotten food containers.

Start by checking:

• Expired packaged food and leftovers.
• Fruits and vegetables that have started rotting.
• Open containers with strong-smelling food.
• Spilled milk, sauces, juices or other liquids.
• Food particles stuck beneath drawers or shelves.

Throw away spoiled food and anything you are unsure is safe to eat. If food has spoiled because of a power cut or refrigerator failure, follow food-safety guidance rather than relying on smell alone to decide whether it is safe.

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service also recommends disposing of spoiled or questionable food before attempting to remove lingering refrigerator odors.

2. Empty and Clean the Refrigerator

Once you have removed spoiled food, give the refrigerator a proper clean. Simply wiping the visible shelves may not be enough because spills can collect in corners, under drawers and around the door seals.

Follow these steps:

1. Remove food and store anything perishable safely while cleaning.
2. Remove removable shelves, drawers and door bins.
3. Wash removable parts with mild dish soap and water.
4. Wipe the interior walls, shelves and door liners using a soft cloth.
5. Clean the corners, rubber door gasket and areas around the drawers.
6. Wipe away any remaining cleaning solution and dry all surfaces thoroughly.

For everyday cleaning, a mild solution of baking soda and warm water can be useful. Whirlpool recommends mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart of warm water for cleaning refrigerator interiors.

You can read its refrigerator cleaning and maintenance guidance for additional care instructions.

Important: Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh household cleaners. Always check your refrigerator’s manual before using vinegar, bleach or other cleaning products. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaning chemicals.

3. Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

Baking soda is one of the easiest ways to deal with lingering refrigerator smells. It helps absorb unpleasant odors instead of simply covering them with fragrance.

Here is how to use it:

1. Take a small, clean and open container.
2. Add a few tablespoons of fresh baking soda.
3. Place it on a stable refrigerator shelf.
4. Replace it periodically, or sooner if the smell returns.

Keep the container away from food and make sure it cannot spill. You can also use a refrigerator-specific baking soda deodorizer according to its instructions.

Remember that baking soda is not a replacement for cleaning. If spoiled food or a hidden spill is still inside the refrigerator, the smell may continue even with an odor absorber.

4. Store Food in Airtight Containers

Food storage habits play a major role in keeping your refrigerator fresh. Strong-smelling ingredients such as onions, garlic, fish and cooked food can spread their smell when left uncovered.

Use airtight containers or properly sealed food-safe bags to store leftovers and prepared ingredients.

A few simple habits can help:

• Store cooked food in covered containers.
• Keep cut fruits and vegetables properly sealed.
• Avoid leaving open packets of food on refrigerator shelves.
• Use separate containers for strong-smelling ingredients.
• Clean food spills as soon as they happen.

These steps help prevent odors from spreading and reduce the chances of food leaking onto other shelves.

5. Check the Drain Hole and Drain Tray

If your refrigerator still smells after cleaning the shelves and drawers, check the drainage area. Food particles and liquid spills can sometimes enter the drain hole at the back of the refrigerator and create unpleasant odors.

Some refrigerators also have a drain tray or drip pan where defrost water collects. If contaminated liquid reaches this area, it may produce a persistent smell.

What you can do:

1. Check the drain hole and surrounding area for visible dirt or residue.
2. Look for water collecting beneath the vegetable drawers.
3. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on accessing and cleaning the drain tray.
4. Clean only removable parts that the manufacturer allows you to handle.

A blocked drain tube or inaccessible drain pan may need professional attention. Do not force tools into the drain or dismantle refrigerator components yourself.

You can also refer to Miele’s refrigerator troubleshooting guidance for advice on dealing with unpleasant smells caused by drainage issues.

6. Try Other Natural Odor Absorbers

If the refrigerator has a mild lingering smell after cleaning, you can try a few additional odor absorbers.

Odor absorber	How to use it	What to know
Activated charcoal	Place refrigerator-safe activated charcoal in a suitable container or sachet.	Can help absorb persistent odors.
Fresh coffee grounds	Put dry, fresh coffee grounds in a small open container.	May help reduce some smells but can leave a coffee scent.
Baking soda	Keep a small open container on a shelf.	A simple option for everyday odor control.

Avoid placing loose powders or liquids directly on refrigerator shelves. Use a stable container, keep odor absorbers away from food and replace them when needed.

7. How to Remove Odors From Fridge and Prevent Them From Returning

Once you know how to remove odors from fridge, the next step is preventing them from coming back. A little regular maintenance can save you from having to deep-clean the refrigerator every time an unpleasant smell develops.

Try following this simple routine:

Cleaning habit	How often	Why it helps
Check for expired food	Once a week	Removes common sources of bad smells.
Wipe fresh spills	Immediately	Stops liquids and food residue from collecting.
Clean shelves and drawers	About once a month, or as needed	Keeps hidden dirt and residue under control.
Check food containers	Regularly	Prevents leaks and uncovered food odors.
Inspect the drain area	Periodically	Helps identify drainage-related smells early.

Also, avoid overloading the refrigerator. Keep food organised so that you can see older items and use them before they spoil.

If you are planning to replace an older refrigerator, consider its storage design, cooling features and energy efficiency. Our guide on what star rating in a fridge means and whether it really saves electricity explains how to compare refrigerator energy labels and understand running costs.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Final Thoughts

A fresh-smelling refrigerator starts with good food storage and regular cleaning. Remove spoiled food, clean hidden spills, use baking soda or another suitable odor absorber, and check the drainage area if the smell continues.

Understanding how to remove odors from fridge can help you deal with unpleasant smells without relying on strong fragrances or unnecessary cleaning products. Most importantly, identify the source instead of simply trying to cover it up.

SG

About the Author

Shivean Gupta

Contributor at GizmoSmart

Shivean Gupta is a marketing technology enthusiast with an interest in artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and emerging technologies. At GizmoSmart, he contributes to consumer technology content, product guides, and articles that help readers understand product features and make informed buying decisions.

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