Quick Answers
How do I get rid of odors in refrigerators or freezers?
Objectionable odors can develop when food is left too
long or is improperly packaged, when the drain pan near
the condenser at the base of the refrigerator needs
cleaning, or when the refrigerator is turned off with
food inside and the door closed. Odors can be difficult
to remove. Insulation absorbs some of the odor and
sometimes makes removal impossible. Plastic-lined
interiors absorb more odors than porcelain enamel on
steel interiors. To prevent odors from occurring:
Package food in moisture-vapor-proof material and
carefully remove all air from packages before sealing.
Clean the refrigerator weekly to reduce spoiled food
odors by washing the interior walls using a solution of
two tablespoons of baking soda per gallon of warm water.
Defrost manual-defrost types when frost is about
one-quarter inch thick. Keep an open box of baking soda
in the refrigerator to absorb odors. Replace every six
weeks to two months. Clean the drain pan and condenser
coils, concealed behind the grill at the bottom of the
refrigerator. Carefully remove the grill by pulling up
and out. Remove the drain pan by sliding it slowly
toward you. Empty the pan and clean it with a solution
of baking soda or mild detergent and warm water. This is
a good time to vacuum dust off the condenser coils. To
remove odors:
1. Choose one of the following cleaning materials and
wash refrigerator/freezer walls: Vinegar--one cup per
gallon of water, Household ammonia--one cup per gallon
of water, Chlorine bleach--one-half cup per gallon of
water. After cleaning, rinse with clear water and dry.
CAUTION: combining two of these may cause toxic fumes to
develop which could be fatal if inhaled.
2. Another way to remove odors is to use one of the
following materials to absorb moisture that contains the
odor: activated charcoal, silica gel, kitty litter,
fresh coffee, chloride of lime (slaked lime). These
products may be available from supermarkets, pet supply
stores, hobby shops, farm-supply stores or hardware
stores. Follow these steps: Disconnect the
refrigerator/freezer. Clean the refrigerator using a
solution of two tablespoons baking soda per gallon of
warm water. Place one of the previously mentioned
materials on paper plates in the refrigerator/freezer.
You will need heat and forced air circulation which can
be supplied by a heater fan or hair dryer placed in the
unit. Leave the door open and turn on the heater fan or
hair dryer.
3. Other methods to try include: Take out all
removable parts and wash with warm water and mild soap
or detergent. Also wash gasket and door liner, top,
bottom and sides. Rinse well and dry. An unusual
technique that often helps is to pack each shelf with
crumpled newspaper. Set a cup of water on the top shelf
or sprinkle newspaper lightly with water. Run closed
unit for five or six days. This method takes longer, but
has been effective in removing very strong odors. Repeat
as necessary. Fill a large, shallow pan or bowl with
vinegar. Let set several hours or as much as two to
three days. Change frequently. Spray disinfectant around
hinges, locks and into any openings.
If the odor still remains after you have tried one or more of these methods, contact the manufacturer. The address should be on the appliance nameplate or in the instruction manual. If you can't locate either, contact your local dealer for the company address. Many manufacturers have toll-free consumer numbers. When writing or calling, have the following information ready: your name and address, make and model number of the appliance, purchase date if possible, brief explanation of the problem.
References: Purdue, Wisconsin and Oklahoma CES
Last update: Tuesday, May 05, 2009
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