How to Get Rid of the Smell in Your Fridge and Freezer
We’ve all experienced a time when we open the fridge or freezer to be greeted by an unpleasant odour. Odours can range from nose-crinkling to downright revolting and can affect your kitchen environment and the taste of your food. There are a few steps to consider when eliminating these odours, from natural deodorizers and household items to cases where you may need professional help. So, let’s have a look at some of these effective methods to get rid of this common kitchen issue.
Understanding the Source of Odours
The first step is to identify where the odour is coming from in the first place, especially as there can be many different sources. One of the most common reasons is spoiled food, which is also the easiest to get rid of. It gets trickier, however, if the mould growth is not restricted to food but is in the fridge itself.
Another factor is inadequate air circulation, which helps create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and develop foul smells. This makes identifying the reason and source of the odours critical to ensure long-term freshness and prevent an escalation. Air fresheners may mask the smell, but, in the end, you must eliminate the root cause.
Initial Cleaning Steps
Once you’ve identified the source of the odour, it’s time to take steps to get rid of it. Start with removing all items from your fridge and freezer. This allows you to do several things:
- inspect and discard expired or spoiled food
- thoroughly clean the interior surfaces of the refrigerator and freezer
- check if the above two steps eliminate the odour
Generally, warm water and a mild detergent will be enough to clean. Use the solution to wipe down shelves, drawers and walls, paying additional attention to any nooks and crannies where odours may come from. Then, Rinse thoroughly with clean water and use a clean cloth to dry before returning your food items.
Natural Deodorizers You Can Use
There are a few natural deodorizers you can use to neutralize unsavoury smells in your fridge and freezer without having to resort to potentially harmful chemicals. One of the most common solutions is baking soda. Place an open container of baking soda on a shelf in your fridge to help eliminate any lingering smells.
A similar product is activated charcoal, which also absorbs moisture from the air. You can find pouches with activated charcoal designed explicitly for fridges and freezers these days. Two other natural deodorizers are coffee grounds and white vinegar, which you can place into your fridge or freezer to help neutralize unpleasant odours.
Preventing Future Odours
Once your fridge and freezer are clean and odour-free, the next step is to ensure these odours don’t return. The most significant factor is proper food storage. Storing perishable items in airtight containers will contain orders and prevent them from spreading.
Also, a regular cleaning schedule should be established to keep the surfaces clean and avoid any potential bacteria build-up. If you want to ensure that mould and mildew will not have a chance to take hold, use a mix of white vinegar and water every few weeks. To eliminate any short-term odours that might develop, put an open box of baking soda in the fridge or freezer.
Innovative Solutions and Products
If you don’t want to rely on homemade solutions, there are a few commercial products available that are specifically designed to absorb or neutralize odours in refrigerators and freezers. Many of these products contain activated charcoal or other odour-absorbing materials and come in various forms, including pouches, gels, and discs. So, while natural deodorizers are effective, you may prefer the convenience of these commercial products.
When to Seek Professional Help
If cleaning and deodorizing don’t eliminate the smells, you might require professional help. An experienced appliance cleaner or technician can inspect your fridge and freezer for any mechanical issues that may be contributing to the odour problem. They will also be able to provide expert advice on how to effectively eliminate stubborn odours and prevent them from returning. iCare Appliance Repair has the experience to identify potential causes for persistent odours and the expertise to remove their root cause.
Conclusion
Eliminating odours in your fridge and freezer is entirely achievable with the right approach. Identify the source of the odour first, then thoroughly clean the appliance and utilize natural deodorizers, and you can achieve and maintain a long-lasting freshness. Remember to store food properly, establish a regular cleaning routine, and consider professional help if unpleasant odours persist beyond that.
If you encounter any difficulties with your refrigerator not working correctly, iCare Appliance Repair is here to help. Our experienced technicians offer a wide range of services to ensure your fridge operates at its best.
With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust iCare Appliance Repair to deliver reliable and efficient solutions for all your fridge repair needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance, and keep your fridge running smoothly for years to come.
Our technicians at iCare Appliance Repair are factory-trained and licensed to service almost every major model and brand, such as Amana, Kenmore, LG & much more. We offer same-day and after-hours repair services that include evenings and late hours. Contact us today at (647) 370-2828 or complete our convenient online form to learn more about our fridge repair services.
