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How To Remove Refrigerator Smell In 3 Easy Steps!

Chelsea Monroe is the Test Kitchen Director for Chop'n Prep magazine. With 15 years in the culinary industry, Chelsea has worked as a chef at acclaimed restaurants in New York and San Francisco. She now oversees recipe development and product testing for the magazine. Chelsea specializes in discovering the best...

What To Know

  • There are a few different things you can do to remove refrigerator smell, and in this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ways to do it.
  • The length of time that a refrigerator smells depends on several factors, including the source of the smell, the strength of the smell, and the type of refrigerator.
  • To use baking soda to remove odors from a refrigerator, simply mix a solution of one part baking soda to two parts water in a spray bottle.

Refrigerator smell can be a real problem, especially if you’re trying to keep your home smelling fresh and clean. There are a few different things you can do to remove refrigerator smell, and in this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ways to do it. We’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent refrigerator smell in the future.

How To Remove Refrigerator Smell

There are a few simple ways to remove refrigerator smells. First, try to remove any spoiled or expired items from the refrigerator. This will help prevent the spread of bad odors. Next, clean the interior of the refrigerator with a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. This will help neutralize any odors. You can also use baking soda to absorb odors. Simply sprinkle some baking soda on a clean cloth and wipe down the interior of the refrigerator. Leave it overnight and then vacuum it up. You can also try leaving a bowl of white vinegar in the refrigerator for a few days. This will help absorb odors. Finally, if the problem persists, you may need to call the refrigerator manufacturer for assistance.

What Causes The Refrigerator Smell?

  • 1. Bacteria and mold: When food is left in the refrigerator for a long time, bacteria and mold can grow on it, causing it to smell.
  • 2. Spoiled food: If food has gone bad, it will start to smell and can cause the entire refrigerator to smell like it.
  • 3. Leaks: If there is a leak in the refrigerator, it can cause a musty smell.
  • 4. Condensation: Condensation can cause a mildew smell in the refrigerator, especially if it is not properly ventilated.
  • 5. Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the refrigerator, including the shelves, drawers, and door seals, can help prevent odors from building up.

How Long Does The Refrigerator Smell Last?

The length of time that a refrigerator smells depends on several factors, including the source of the smell, the strength of the smell, and the type of refrigerator. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Strong odors: Strong odors, such as those from spoiled food, can linger in the refrigerator for up to a week or more. It’s important to thoroughly clean and deodorize the interior of the refrigerator to eliminate these odors.

2. Mild odors: Mild odors, such as those from onions or garlic, can linger in the refrigerator for up to a few days. It’s important to store these foods properly to avoid transferring the smell to other items in the crisper.

3. New refrigerator smell: A new refrigerator may have a “new” or “plastic” smell that can linger for up to a few weeks. This is normal and should dissipate over time.

Overall, the key to preventing odors in the refrigerator is to keep it clean, organized, and properly ventilated. Regularly cleaning out the refrigerator and wiping down the interior can help to keep odors at bay.

Is It Safe To Use Baking Soda To Remove The Refrigerator Smell?

Yes, it is safe to use a baking soda solution to remove odors from a refrigerator. Baking soda is a safe and effective deodorizer that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including refrigerators.

To use baking soda to remove odors from a refrigerator, simply mix a solution of one part baking soda to two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the inside of the refrigerator, making sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the solution to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before wiping it down with a damp cloth.

Alternatively, you can sprinkle baking soda directly onto the inside of the refrigerator and let it sit for several hours before wiping it down. This will help to absorb odors and freshen the inside of the refrigerator.

It is important to use caution when cleaning a refrigerator, as certain surfaces can be damaged by water or cleaning solutions. Always test a small area of the refrigerator before using any cleaning solution to ensure that it will not damage the surface.

Are There Any Other Ways To Remove The Refrigerator Smell?

Refrigerator smells can be unpleasant and bothersome, but luckily there are several ways to remove them. Here are a few methods you can try:

1. Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and can help neutralize strong smells in your refrigerator. Simply place an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator and leave it for a few days.

2. Vinegar: Vinegar is another effective odor neutralizer. Fill a small bowl with vinegar and place it in your refrigerator. You can also mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and mist the inside of your refrigerator.

3. Lemons: Lemons have a natural deodorizing effect and can help remove odors from your refrigerator. Cut a lemon in half and place it in a bowl of water in your refrigerator.

4. Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds can absorb odors, making them a useful deodorizing tool for your refrigerator. Place a bowl of coffee grounds in your refrigerator for a few days.

5. Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is a natural deodorizer and can help remove odors from your refrigerator. Place a small bag of activated charcoal in your refrigerator for a few days.

6. Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract has a sweet, pleasant aroma that can help mask unpleasant odors in your refrigerator. Place a few drops of vanilla extract on a cotton ball and place it in your refrigerator.

7. Fresh herbs: Fresh herbs such as mint, basil, or rosemary can help remove odors from your refrigerator. Place a few sprigs of fresh herbs in a bowl of water in your refrigerator.

Remember, it’s important to regularly clean your refrigerator to prevent odors from building up. Regularly wipe down the inside of your refrigerator with a damp cloth to remove any spills or crumbs, and vacuum the condenser coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator to remove dust and debris.

How Do You Prevent Refrigerator Smell In The Future?

Refrigerator smells can be annoying and unpleasant. They can also make your food taste bad. Here are a few tips on how to prevent refrigerator smells in the future:

1. Clean your refrigerator regularly: Wipe down the inside of your refrigerator with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any spills or debris that may be causing the smell.

2. Use baking soda: Place a small bowl of baking soda in your refrigerator. This will help to absorb any odors that may be lingering.

3. Keep your refrigerator full: A full refrigerator will help to contain any odors that may be building up.

4. Use containers: When storing food in your refrigerator, use airtight containers. This will help to prevent odors from escaping and contaminating other foods.

5. Keep your refrigerator organized: A well-organized refrigerator will make it easier to find what you need and will prevent food from going bad.

6. Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can help to absorb odors in your refrigerator. Place a few sprigs of herbs in a container of water in your refrigerator.

7. Use vinegar: Vinegar is a natural deodorizer. Place a bowl of vinegar in your refrigerator. This will help to absorb any odors.

8. Keep your refrigerator door closed: Leaving the door open allows odors to escape and contaminate other foods.

9. Use activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is a natural deodorizer. Place a few pieces of activated charcoal in a container of water in your refrigerator.

10. Use baking soda and vinegar: Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a bowl. Place this mixture in a container in your refrigerator. This will help to absorb any odors.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent refrigerator smells in the future.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, removing refrigerator odors doesn’t have to be a daunting or time-consuming task. By following these simple tips, you can keep your fridge smelling fresh and clean, ensuring that your food stays safe and appetizing. Remember, prevention is key, so taking a few minutes to wipe down your fridge regularly can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.

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Chelsea Monroe

Chelsea Monroe is the Test Kitchen Director for Chop'n Prep magazine. With 15 years in the culinary industry, Chelsea has worked as a chef at acclaimed restaurants in New York and San Francisco. She now oversees recipe development and product testing for the magazine. Chelsea specializes in discovering the best tools for improving home cooking techniques. Whether it's finding the easiest way to julienne vegetables or baking artisan breads without a stand mixer, Chelsea puts appliances, gadgets and utensils to the test. When she's not obsessing over the latest innovations, Chelsea enjoys traveling, cooking for friends and family, and experimenting with seasonal, local ingredients. Her goal is helping home chefs produce restaurant-quality meals with minimum fuss using the right kitchen tools.
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