A smelly fridge is never a welcome surprise. It’s a mix of leftovers, spills, condiments, and sometimes-forgotten items that accumulate over time. Because a refrigerator is a cool, enclosed environment, bad smells can become trapped and even seep into seals or insulation. The good news? With the proper steps and natural deodorisers, you can restore freshness quickly and easily.
Why Your Fridge Smells
Common causes include:
- Spilled juices and leaks
- Expired or mouldy food
- Damp drawers or hidden residue
- Poorly sealed containers
- Food that has gone off but still appears closed
Moisture and low airflow make the fridge the perfect place for odours to linger and multiply.
Step-by-Step: The Fresh Fridge Routine
1. Empty and Inspect
Remove everything from the fridge. Discard expired or spoiled items. You cannot eliminate the smell unless you remove its source.
2. Remove Shelves and Drawers
Take out all removable parts. Let the glass warm to room temperature before washing to prevent cracking. Clean with hot, soapy water, then rinse and dry.
3. Clean the Interior
Use one of these cleaning solutions:
- Mild detergent and warm water
- Baking soda solution (one part baking soda to water)
- Vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water for stubborn odours)
Wipe the walls, shelves, door seals and interior surfaces.
4. Air It Out
Leave the door open for a short period to let trapped smells escape and allow the interior to dry fully.
Natural Fridge Deodorisers
Once cleaned, place one of these inside your fridge to keep it fresh:
- Baking soda (replace every 3–4 months)
- Activated charcoal (excellent for strong odours)
- Coffee grounds (absorb smell and add aroma)
- Lemon slices or lemon with baking soda for a clean, fresh scent
Tips to Prevent Odours from Returning
- Wrap or seal food properly.
- Clean spills immediately.
- Do a monthly wipe-down of drawers, shelves and door seals.
- Keep a deodoriser inside the fridge year-round.
- If accessible, clean the drip tray and coils every few months.
If odours persist even after deep cleaning and deodorising, the smell may have penetrated the insulation. At that stage, professional servicing or appliance replacement may be required.
Why a Fresh Fridge Matters
A clean, fresh-smelling fridge:
- Reduces food waste
- Keeps food safer for longer
- Prevents odour transfer
- Improves the overall hygiene of your kitchen
Your fridge is the silent partner in your cooking routine — give it a little care, and it will keep your food fresher, safer and more enjoyable.
