How to Get Rid of Refrigerator Odour?

For most households, the refrigerator is the unsung hero of the kitchen. It quietly runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, preserving fresh produce, dairy, meats, leftovers, and drinks. But how often do we actually give this hard-working appliance the care it deserves?

Surprisingly, research has found that 1 in 5 people clean their refrigerators only twice a year. That’s just once every six months—a frequency far below what experts recommend. While it may seem harmless to let cleaning slide, neglecting refrigerator maintenance can result in energy waste, reduced appliance efficiency, and even risks to food safety.

Jamie Cooper, Senior Director of Refrigeration Products at Hotpoint (U.S.), explains:

“Your refrigerator is constantly working to keep your food fresh. But if it has dust, dirt, ice buildup, or clogged air vents, efficiency drops—and that can impact food safety. Regular cleaning doesn’t just keep it hygienic; it also extends its lifespan and helps save energy.”

This article explores why refrigerator cleaning matters, practical tips to keep your fridge fresh, and simple, affordable hacks—like using baking soda—to eliminate unpleasant odours.

Why Cleaning Your Refrigerator Matters

The refrigerator may not look dirty at first glance, but hidden issues can build up over time. Here’s why consistent cleaning is so important:

1. Food Safety
   Forgotten leftovers, spills, or expired products can harbour harmful bacteria and mould. If not cleaned, these microorganisms can spread to fresh foods, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
2. Energy Efficiency
   A refrigerator with dusty coils, clogged vents, or ice buildup has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature. This increases electricity consumption and can shorten the appliance’s lifespan.
3. Odor Prevention
   Food odours mix over time, creating unpleasant smells that can affect the taste and freshness of other items in the fridge.
4. Organisation and Storage
   A clean fridge makes it easier to see what you have, reduces waste, and stores food properly.

Think of cleaning your refrigerator as both a hygiene practice and an investment in your appliance’s performance.

Baking Soda: A Simple, Effective Odour Neutraliser

Among the many cleaning products available, one inexpensive household staple stands out: baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).

Experts recommend placing an open container of baking soda inside the refrigerator to absorb unwanted odours naturally. Jamie Cooper explains:

“Just open a box of baking soda and leave it inside the fridge. It will help neutralize odors for up to a month.”

So why does baking soda work so well?

• Balances pH: Baking soda is a mild alkaline substance. It reacts with acidic and basic odour molecules, neutralising them into odourless compounds.
• Absorbs Smells: The fine particles in baking soda have a porous surface that traps odour molecules directly.

How to Use Baking Soda in the Refrigerator

1. Choose the Right Container
   Use a shallow, open container or leave the top flaps of the baking soda box wide open for maximum exposure.
2. Pick the Right Spot
   Place it near areas prone to strong odours, such as the meat drawer, vegetable crisper, or near leftovers.
3. Track Replacement Dates
   For best results, replace the box every 3 months. Write the date on the box as a reminder. If odours return sooner, replace it earlier.

Other Natural Odour Solutions

While baking soda is the classic solution, there are other natural methods worth trying.

• Vanilla Extract on Cotton
  Place a few drops of vanilla extract on a cotton ball and leave it in a small dish inside the fridge. The sweet aroma of vanilla helps mask unpleasant odours while remaining safe around food.
• Activated Charcoal
  Charcoal has an even greater surface area than baking soda, making it excellent at absorbing odours. A small pouch of food-safe activated charcoal can last for weeks.
• Coffee Grounds
  Dried coffee grounds placed in a small bowl can also absorb and mask odours with their rich aroma.

These methods are safe, affordable, and easy to incorporate into your routine.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Refrigerator

To keep your fridge both clean and efficient, follow this structured cleaning approach:

Weekly Quick Clean

• Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Check for expired items or leftovers that are more than a few days old.
• Rinse and dry produce drawers if needed.

Deep Clean Every 3 Months

1. Unplug and Empty the Fridge
   Remove all food items, storing perishables in a cooler temporarily.
2. Remove Shelves and Drawers
   Wash them in warm, soapy water. For tough stains, use a mixture of baking soda and water.
3. Wipe Interior Surfaces
   Use a mild cleaning solution (e.g., vinegar and water or baking soda and water). Avoid harsh chemicals that may leave odours or residues.
4. Clean the Door Seals
   Gently scrub rubber gaskets with a soft brush and soapy water. Keeping seals clean prevents air leaks.
5. Check the Drip Pan and Vents
   Some refrigerators have drip pans under the unit that collect condensation. Empty and clean if accessible. Clear vents of dust and food debris.
6. Vacuum the Coils
   Pull the fridge away from the wall and vacuum dust from the condenser coils. This boosts energy efficiency.
7. Restock Thoughtfully
   As you put items back, wipe jars and containers. Group similar items together for easier access and less food waste.

How Often Should You Clean?

Experts recommend:

• Weekly: Quick spot cleaning and checking for expired food.
• Every 3 Months: Full deep clean with shelves, drawers, and coils.
• Every 6 Months: Inspect and clean drip pans, replace baking soda, and check seals.

While many people only clean their fridge twice a year, adopting this schedule ensures both food safety and optimal appliance performance.

Additional Refrigerator Care Tips

To keep your fridge fresh and running smoothly beyond just cleaning:

1. Avoid Overloading
   Overstuffed fridges block airflow, making it harder to maintain even temperatures.
2. Store Food Properly
   • Raw meat should go in sealed containers on the bottom shelf.
   • Dairy and eggs belong in the main body of the fridge, not the door.
   • Fruits and vegetables should be stored separately in designated drawers.
3. Check Temperature Settings
   Keep the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
4. Use Clear Containers
   Transparent containers make it easier to see leftovers and avoid food waste.
5. Label and Date Items
   Mark leftovers with dates to track freshness and prevent forgotten food from spoiling.

The Connection Between Refrigerator Care and Sustainability

Cleaning your refrigerator isn’t just about hygiene—it also has an environmental impact.

• Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained fridge consumes less electricity, reducing household energy bills and carbon footprint.
• Reduced Food Waste: A clean, organised fridge makes it easier to use up food before it spoils. Globally, food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

By taking better care of your fridge, you’re not only protecting your household but also contributing to sustainability efforts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, many people make mistakes when maintaining their refrigerators. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using Bleach or Harsh Chemicals
  These can leave strong odours that linger in food. Stick to mild, food-safe cleaners.
• Forgetting the Freezer
  Freezers also need regular cleaning and defrosting to prevent ice buildup.
• Ignoring Strange Noises or Smells
  These could indicate mechanical issues. Address them early to prevent costly repairs.
• Letting Spills Sit
  Liquids can seep into crevices and encourage mould. Wipe spills immediately.

Conclusion: A Small Effort with Big Rewards

Cleaning your refrigerator may not be the most glamorous chore, but it’s one of the most important for ensuring food safety, saving energy, and extending the lifespan of your appliance. With simple habits—like weekly wipe-downs, quarterly deep cleans, and placing baking soda inside—you can keep your fridge fresh, efficient, and safe for your family.

As Jamie Cooper from Hotpoint emphasises, a refrigerator that’s cared for works better, lasts longer, and supports healthier living. So, the next time you notice an odd smell or cluttered shelf, don’t put off cleaning—your food, wallet, and health will thank you.