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How to Remove Smell from Refrigerator Fast and Naturally

How to Remove Smell from Refrigerator Fast and Naturally

Steven Johnson |

Let’s face it, opening your fridge and being greeted by a funky odor is a nasty surprise. Whether it's from forgotten leftovers, spilled milk, or that mystery container in the back, a smelly fridge can turn your appetite off real fast. But here’s the good news: getting rid of those odors isn't rocket science. In fact, with the right know-how, you can tackle the stink head-on and keep your refrigerator smelling fresh 24/7.

This guide dives deep into how to remove smell from refrigerator, using proven methods, expert-backed tips, and everyday household items. We'll also explore what causes these odors, how to prevent them, and what to do if they just won’t go away. If you're tired of holding your breath every time you open the fridge, you're in the right place.

Why Does Your Refrigerator Smell?

Ever opened your fridge only to be hit by a wave of stench that makes you want to slam the door shut? You're not alone. Figuring out how to remove smell from refrigerator starts with understanding what’s causing that nasty odor in the first place. A smelly fridge doesn’t just happen overnight—odors build up gradually, and there’s usually more than one culprit.

Let’s break down the most common reasons your fridge might be giving off unpleasant smells.

Spoiled Food

This one’s a classic. Leftovers pushed to the back, forgotten takeout boxes, or produce that's turned into a science experiment—any of these can quickly become the source of a serious stink. Once food starts to spoil, it releases gases and bacteria that cling to the interior surfaces, making refrigerator smell removal a bigger job than it needs to be.

And here’s the kicker: even if you remove the offending food, the smell might linger. That’s why it's crucial not just to toss spoiled items but to thoroughly clean and deodorize the interior right away.

smelly fridge

Spills and Leaks

That mysterious sticky spot under the crisper drawer? It might be the reason you’re desperately Googling how to get rid of smell in fridge. Spilled juice, leaky containers, or raw meat juices can seep into tiny crevices and go unnoticed for weeks. Over time, these messes start to rot and breed bacteria, which produces odors that a simple air freshener can’t mask.

Cleaning up visible spills immediately is a good start, but doing a deep clean every few weeks can stop those smells before they start.

Improper Storage

Leaving food uncovered or storing strong-smelling items like onions, cheese, or fish without a sealed container is like sending an open invitation for odors to take over. Even the best refrigerators need a little help when it comes to controlling smells, and that starts with smart food storage.

Use airtight containers for leftovers and raw meats, and label everything with a date so you don’t forget what’s in there. This small step can go a long way in helping you remove stink from fridge before it becomes a bigger issue.

Poor Air Circulation

Ever stuffed your fridge so full that you could barely close the door? Besides being a juggling act every time you need the milk, overpacking kills air circulation. Without proper airflow, moisture builds up, and odors get trapped inside.

Bad airflow doesn’t just make your fridge smell—it also affects food freshness. Ensuring space between items lets cold air move freely and keeps everything evenly chilled, which can help prevent the conditions that lead to a smelly fridge in the first place.

Neglected Drip Pans and Drain Holes

Some fridges come with a drip pan or a drainage system that collects condensation. If you’ve never cleaned yours, you’re not alone—it’s a commonly overlooked spot. Unfortunately, this hidden area can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew, both of which contribute to that persistent musty odor.

If you've been cleaning the visible parts of your fridge but still notice an off smell, check underneath. Giving your drip pan a good scrub can be a game-changer in your refrigerator smell removal mission.
Also, don’t forget to check your refrigerator’s built-in filter—an old or dirty filter can harbor bacteria and contribute to odors. You can browse high-quality refrigerator filters here to find replacements that keep your fridge smelling fresh.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Smell from Refrigerator

When you're hit with a nasty odor every time you open your fridge, it's time to take action. Knowing how to remove smell from refrigerator isn’t just about masking the stink—it’s about eliminating the source and keeping it from coming back. Follow these easy, foolproof steps to tackle that smelly fridge once and for all.

Empty the Refrigerator

First things first—clear everything out. That means everything. Leftovers, condiments, drinks, even the baking soda box that’s been sitting in the corner for six months. Take it all out so you can get a good look (and smell) inside.

While you're at it, go through each item and toss anything expired, questionable, or smelly. One rotten tomato can sabotage your entire refrigerator smell removal effort, so don’t be shy about decluttering.

Tip: Store your perishables in a cooler with ice packs while you clean, especially if it's going to take a little while.

Remove Shelves and Drawers

Once the fridge is empty, it’s time to dismantle it—at least partially. Take out all the removable shelves, drawers, and bins. These parts are notorious for trapping spills, crumbs, and odors, especially under the crisper drawers or inside shelf seams.

Soak them in a sink filled with warm water and mild dish soap. Add a splash of vinegar or baking soda to the water for a little extra deodorizing power.

Pro tip: Don’t put cold glass shelves directly into hot water—they might crack from the temperature shock. Let them sit at room temp for a few minutes first.

Clean Interior Surfaces

Now onto the guts of the fridge. Using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down all interior surfaces—walls, ceiling, floor, door gaskets—with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.

For deeper odor control, mix a solution of 1 tablespoon baking soda with 1 quart of warm water. Baking soda is a powerhouse when it comes to removing stink from fridge interiors.

Stubborn stains or lingering smells? Try a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water, or sprinkle baking soda directly onto a sponge and scrub gently.

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners—they might leave a scent behind that can leach into your food.

Clean the Drip Pan and Drain Hole

You might not see them, but these hidden spots are often the secret source of fridge funk. The drip pan, usually located underneath the unit, can collect condensation, spills, and even mold over time. Slide it out carefully and give it a good clean with soap and warm water.

While you're at it, check the drain hole (often found in the back of the fridge or freezer compartment). Use a cotton swab or pipe cleaner to gently remove debris. This can drastically reduce mildew buildup and help you get rid of smell in fridge long-term.

Dry Everything Thoroughly

Before you put anything back, make sure the fridge and all its parts are completely dry. Moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria, and a damp interior can lead to future odors.

Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe everything down, or simply leave the doors open for 15–20 minutes to air dry.

This step might feel minor, but it’s essential for thorough refrigerator smell removal.

Use Natural Deodorizers

Once your fridge is clean and dry, it’s time to prevent future smells from taking hold. Natural deodorizers are your best friend here.

Here are some simple but powerful options:

  • Baking soda: Place an open box on a shelf to absorb odors. This method is well-loved for a reason—it works! Wondering where to put baking soda in fridge? The back of the middle shelf is usually ideal.
  • Activated charcoal: Found in pet stores or online, charcoal is amazing at neutralizing strong smells.
  • Lemon halves: A fresh, zesty way to combat a smelly fridge. Just slice a lemon and place it in a small dish.
  • Coffee grounds: Spread used coffee grounds in a bowl—they’ll absorb odor and leave behind a pleasant scent.

Rotate or replace these every few weeks to keep your fridge fresh.

Let the Fridge Air Out

This is a simple trick many people skip. After cleaning, leave the fridge doors open for a couple of hours (with it unplugged if you're doing a deep clean). Letting it air out allows any residual moisture or odor to dissipate.

This is especially helpful if you’ve had a major odor issue like spoiled meat or a power outage. A bit of fresh air can go a long way toward helping you remove stink from fridge interiors.

Plug Back In and Restock Smartly

Now that your fridge is squeaky clean, it’s time to plug it back in and start restocking. But don’t just toss things back in—this is your chance to organize for odor prevention.

  • Store raw meats in leak-proof containers on the bottom shelf.
  • Keep strong-smelling items like onions and cheeses sealed.
  • Label leftovers with the date and toss anything older than 3–4 days.
  • Keep your natural deodorizer (like that trusty box of baking soda) in place.

Taking just a few extra minutes to be strategic with how you restock will help maintain all your hard work and keep your fridge smelling clean and fresh.

how to get rid of smell in fridge

Natural Deodorizers That Work Wonders

You’ve scrubbed, sanitized, and restocked—but how do you keep your fridge smelling fresh long after the clean-up? That’s where natural deodorizers come in. These simple, non-toxic options are not only affordable but also incredibly effective when it comes to long-term refrigerator smell removal. If you're tired of dealing with a smelly fridge, try adding these all-natural odor busters to your routine.

Baking Soda — The Classic Fridge Hero

Let’s start with the gold standard. Does baking soda remove fridge odor? Absolutely—and here’s why. Baking soda neutralizes acidic and alkaline molecules that create those unpleasant smells, rather than just covering them up.

To use it properly:

  • Open a fresh box of baking soda and place it on the middle or top shelf of your fridge.
  • Where do I put baking soda in my fridge? Ideally, somewhere it won’t be knocked over but still has airflow. Avoid placing it near the vent or in the door.
  • Replace the box every 30 days for best results.

How long does it take baking soda to remove odor? In most cases, you’ll notice a difference within a few hours, though persistent smells might take a day or two to completely disappear. This method is a staple for anyone learning how to remove smell from refrigerator the natural way.

Activated Charcoal — Deep Odor Control

If your fridge has that lingering funk that even baking soda can’t quite tackle, try activated charcoal. This ultra-porous material absorbs odors like a sponge and works wonders in even the most stubborn cases.

To use:

  • Place a small bowl or sachet of activated charcoal in the back of your fridge.
  • Leave it for up to a week for heavy odors, or keep it in place for 30 days for maintenance.

Many people swear by charcoal for refrigerator smell removal, especially after a power outage or spoiled food incident. It’s also a great way to remove stink from fridge compartments that hold strong-smelling items like garlic, fish, or kimchi.

Fresh Lemon — Nature’s Air Freshener

Does a lemon get rid of a smelly fridge? You bet it does. Lemon is a double-duty deodorizer: it neutralizes odors while leaving behind a clean, zesty scent. Plus, it’s something most of us already have on hand.

To use:

  • Slice a lemon in half and place it on a small dish inside the fridge.
  • For stronger effect, poke a few cloves into the lemon to boost its deodorizing power.
  • Replace every 3–5 days.

While lemon won’t tackle deep-seated moldy smells on its own, it’s a great daily freshener and a natural way to prevent a smelly fridge from coming back.

Coffee Grounds — A Warm Scent with Odor-Fighting Power

Here’s one for the coffee lovers—used coffee grounds do more than just smell great. They actually absorb foul odors and replace them with that cozy, familiar scent.

How to use:

  • Dry out your used coffee grounds.
  • Spread them in a shallow container and place it in the back of the fridge.
  • Replace weekly, or as needed.

Coffee grounds are a surprisingly effective choice for people looking to get rid of smell in fridge spaces without using chemicals.

Vinegar — The Tough Love Solution

White vinegar is a strong natural deodorizer that’s especially helpful after deep cleans. Its acetic acid content breaks down odor-causing bacteria, making it perfect for refrigerator smell removal.

To use:

  • Place a cup of white vinegar in an open bowl on a shelf.
  • Leave it for 24–48 hours, depending on the severity of the odor.
  • For maintenance, wipe fridge surfaces with a diluted vinegar solution weekly.

If you’re wondering how to remove smell from refrigerator after dealing with something like a meat spill or sour milk, vinegar can be a lifesaver.

DIY Fridge Deodorizer — Quick & Customizable

How do you make a homemade fridge deodorizer? It’s easier than you might think. You can whip one up with basic kitchen ingredients and even customize the scent to your liking.

Here’s a simple recipe:

  • Mix 1/2 cup baking soda with a few drops of essential oil (like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus).
  • Pour it into a small mason jar.
  • Cover with breathable fabric or paper with holes poked into it.
  • Place it in the fridge for ongoing freshness.

This DIY option gives you full control over both odor absorption and scent, making it ideal for long-term smelly fridge prevention.

refrigerator smell removal

How Long Does It Take to Get the Smell Out of Fridge?

We’ve all been there—opening the fridge door only to be greeted by a wave of something foul. Maybe it was that forgotten takeout box, or a power outage that left things to spoil. Once you've done the cleanup, the big question remains: How long does it take to get the smell out of fridge?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what caused the odor, how long it’s been there, and what methods you’re using. Let’s break it down.

The Type of Smell Matters More Than You Think

Not all fridge smells are created equal. If it’s a mild scent—like leftover onion or cheese—it may dissipate within a few hours after refrigerator smell removal steps like wiping down shelves and using a deodorizer. But for more stubborn cases, like spoiled meat or mold, the smell can linger for days if not treated properly.

If you’re trying to remove stink from fridge interiors after a power failure or something truly rank, expect a longer timeline. These odors may have seeped into the plastic lining or gaskets, making them harder to eliminate completely.

Mild odors: 3–12 hours with natural deodorizers
Moderate smells: 24–48 hours after thorough cleaning and ventilation
Severe odors: 3–7 days with aggressive cleaning, baking soda, and charcoal

So when people ask how long does it take to get smell out of fridge, the answer really comes down to what you're dealing with—and how proactive you are.

How Long Do Natural Deodorizers Take to Work?

If you're relying on natural solutions (which we love, by the way), here's what you can expect in terms of timing:

  • Baking soda: Typically starts neutralizing odors within 4–6 hours, with full effects noticeable in 24–48 hours.
  • Activated charcoal: One of the most powerful deodorizers—it can begin absorbing odors in just a few hours and keep working for weeks.
  • Lemon slices: Offer instant freshness but may not completely erase stronger smells. Think of lemon as a fragrance booster rather than a full smelly fridge fixer.
  • Coffee grounds: Usually work overnight and are ideal for lingering food odors.
  • Vinegar: Starts working within a few hours; for stubborn smells, leave a bowl overnight.

So, if you're using any of these, expect a range between half a day to two full days for full refrigerator smell removal. Just remember: patience is key.

Deep Cleaning Takes Time, but It’s Worth It

For the toughest cases, like spoiled seafood or rotten produce left undetected for too long, deep cleaning is unavoidable. You’ll need to:

  • Empty the entire fridge.
  • Remove drawers and shelves for soaking.
  • Scrub every surface with a baking soda and vinegar solution.
  • Use a fan or leave the door open (if possible) to air it out.

Even with these efforts, the smell may cling for another 48–72 hours depending on how long the issue persisted. But the good news? Once you’ve done a deep refrigerator smell removal, maintenance becomes much easier.

How to Speed Up the Process

Want to fast-track your fridge freshness? Here are a few pro tips:

1. Keep the fridge door open (if you can): Airflow helps dissipate lingering odors. Just be mindful of food safety.

2. Use multiple deodorizers: Baking soda + lemon or charcoal + vinegar can work better together.

3. Place bowls of coffee grounds or activated charcoal on multiple shelves to cover more odor zones.

4. Wipe the inside daily for a couple of days post-cleanup with a vinegar-based solution.

5. Check hidden culprits like spills in the bottom tray or forgotten items in crisper drawers.

Using these hacks, you might cut your deodorizing time in half—especially if you're serious about how to remove smell from refrigerator fast.

how to remove smell from refrigerator

How to Prevent Fridge Odors from Coming Back

Smart Food Storage

  • Use airtight containers
  • Label and date leftovers
  • Store raw meat on the bottom shelf

Monthly Maintenance

  • Do a quick clean every month
  • Wipe down spills as they happen
  • Replace deodorizers regularly

Keep It Fresh

  • Don’t overcrowd
  • Allow airflow between items
  • Keep temperature around 37°F (3°C)

Conclusion

Dealing with a smelly fridge might not be glamorous, but it’s 100% doable. Now that you know how to remove smell from refrigerator, you can reclaim your fresh-smelling kitchen space with ease. From natural deodorizers like baking soda and lemon to good old-fashioned scrubbing, the secret lies in consistent care and quick action.

So go ahead, clean out that fridge, toss the mystery leftovers, and give it the TLC it deserves. Your nose (and your next snack) will thank you.

FAQs

How to get rid of bad smell in the fridge?

Start by removing all food items—yes, even the condiments. Then give every surface a deep clean using a mix of warm water and baking soda. Don’t forget drawers, gaskets, and hidden corners. Let the fridge air out for a few hours if possible, and place a bowl of baking soda or activated charcoal inside afterward. That’s the fastest way to tackle the stink and kick off full refrigerator smell removal.

What can I use to neutralize smell for fridge?

Baking soda is a tried-and-true solution, but it’s not your only option. Activated charcoal, ground coffee, vinegar, lemon slices, and even oats can help absorb or mask odors. These natural deodorizers are perfect if you're looking for non-toxic, low-effort ways to remove stink from fridge interiors.

Does baking soda remove fridge odor?

Absolutely. Baking soda works by neutralizing pH levels and absorbing acidic or alkaline smells. Just place an open box or bowl on a shelf and let it sit. For strong odors, you might need to replace it weekly. It’s one of the easiest and most effective answers to how to get rid of smell in fridge.

How long does it take to get smell out of fridge?

Depending on the source and severity of the odor, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Mild smells may disappear overnight, while more persistent odors could linger for 3–5 days even after a thorough cleaning. Adding natural deodorizers can significantly shorten the refrigerator smell removal timeline.

Does a lemon get rid of a smelly fridge?

Yes—but with a caveat. Lemons are great for adding freshness and masking light odors. If your smelly fridge problem is mild, halved lemons placed on a plate can do wonders. For stronger smells, however, pair lemon with a deep clean or baking soda for a more powerful combo.

Where do I put baking soda in my fridge?

Place it on the middle shelf, uncovered in a small bowl or in an open box. If your fridge smell is intense, you can put small bowls in multiple compartments—especially near the back corners and produce drawers. This spreads the deodorizing effect throughout the fridge more evenly.

How long does it take baking soda to remove odor?

Baking soda begins absorbing odors within just a few hours. You’ll typically notice a fresher smell in about 12–24 hours. For serious refrigerator smell removal, keep it in place for up to a week and replace it monthly for maintenance.

How do you make a homemade fridge deodorizer?

It’s simple! Here are a few quick recipes:

  • Baking Soda + Essential Oil: Mix a cup of baking soda with a few drops of lemon or lavender oil and store in a breathable container.
  • Coffee Grounds in a Bowl: Use dry, used coffee grounds in an open bowl to absorb tough odors.
  • Charcoal Packets: Activated charcoal in a mesh pouch can trap odors like a magnet.

Each of these DIY methods helps remove stink from fridge interiors without relying on chemical sprays.

How to clean a fridge without baking soda?

No baking soda? No problem. You can make an effective cleaning solution using vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). Spray it on shelves, drawers, and seals, then wipe down with a microfiber cloth. Lemon juice and salt can also be used to scrub sticky or smelly spots. Even dish soap with hot water will work for everyday cleaning and mild fridge smell.

Why does my fridge still smell after cleaning?

If you’ve scrubbed everything but the odor’s still lingering, you may have missed hidden sources like:

  • Spills beneath drawers or in drain holes
  • Mold or mildew in the drip pan
  • Old food stuck in door seals
  • A clogged defrost drain

Try inspecting those areas, then double down with odor absorbers like charcoal or vinegar. Persistent smells might take multiple rounds of refrigerator smell removal to completely vanish.