How to Remove Smell from Your Fridge Naturally: Effective Methods

Fridges are amazing at keeping our food fresh, but sometimes they can develop a less-than-pleasant odor. That funky smell wafting from your fridge can be a real mood killer, especially when you’re craving a snack. Fortunately, you don’t have to resort to harsh chemicals to get rid of it.

There are plenty of natural methods that will have your fridge smelling fresh again in no time! Whether it’s from forgotten leftovers, spills, or just general use, let’s dive into some easy ways to kick those smells to the curb and keep your fridge smelling fresh and clean.

Natural Methods to Eliminate Odors in Your Fridge

You open your fridge, and bam – that unmistakable sour, musty smell hits you right in the face. Don’t panic! This is something that can happen to the best of us, and it’s totally fixable with a few simple, natural techniques. You don’t need to buy expensive air fresheners or chemicals that can leave residues behind – there are plenty of everyday items that can work wonders.

1. Baking Soda: The Classic Fridge Freshener

If there’s one thing you’ve probably already heard of to help with fridge smells, it’s baking soda. It’s inexpensive, safe, and works like a charm! Baking soda is known for its ability to neutralize odors, not just mask them. When you place an open box of baking soda in your fridge, it absorbs odors, leaving your fridge smelling fresh without any artificial scents.

To use this method, simply open a box of baking soda and place it on a shelf in your fridge. Make sure to place it near the back or in a less prominent area. You’ll want it to be able to absorb smells from all corners, so don’t hide it in a spot where air circulation is poor. Every three months or so, replace the box to keep the smell-fighting power strong. You can even sprinkle some baking soda inside a bowl to create a more effective odor trap.

2. Activated Charcoal: A Powerful Deodorizer

Activated charcoal is a great way to fight strong odors in your fridge naturally. It’s not the same charcoal you use for your barbecue – activated charcoal is specially treated to have tiny pores that help trap and absorb odors. You can find activated charcoal in various forms: as bags, pouches, or loose granules. It’s incredibly effective and lasts for a long time, making it a low-maintenance option for keeping your fridge smelling fresh.

To use activated charcoal, simply place a pouch or a small dish filled with activated charcoal on a shelf in your fridge. Like baking soda, activated charcoal works by absorbing the unpleasant smells, and it’s especially good at tackling more intense odors. Plus, it’s reusable – you can place it in the sun for a few hours every couple of weeks to refresh it.

3. Coffee Grounds: A Refreshing and Smelly Solution

If you love coffee, this one’s for you! Coffee grounds are not only great for your morning cup of joe, but they can also help neutralize odors in your fridge. The scent of coffee grounds can absorb odors and leave behind a fresh, natural smell. You don’t need to use fresh coffee grounds – used grounds will do the trick just as well.

To use coffee grounds as a fridge deodorizer, simply place them in a bowl and leave it in the fridge. Make sure the bowl is wide enough for the grounds to cover a good surface area. Coffee grounds can last a few days before you need to replace them, and they’ll work wonders to eliminate any unwanted smells.

4. White Vinegar: The Smell-Fighting Solution

Vinegar is another household staple that can be used to clean and freshen up your fridge naturally. Its acidic properties can break down and neutralize odors, making it a fantastic choice for tackling any funky smells that might be lingering inside your fridge. You can use white vinegar as a cleaner, or you can leave a small dish of it in your fridge to absorb odors.

For cleaning, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray the inside of your fridge, paying special attention to areas where spills or food residue might have accumulated. Wipe everything down with a clean cloth, and you’ll be left with a fresh, clean fridge.

5. Citrus Peels: A Natural, Fresh Scent

Citrus peels, whether from lemons, oranges, or grapefruits, are a natural and pleasant way to freshen up your fridge. The oils in the peels are aromatic and help neutralize bad odors, leaving behind a light, refreshing scent. Not only do citrus peels work wonders for your fridge, but they also give you the bonus of using something you would have thrown away anyway!

To use citrus peels in your fridge, simply cut them into pieces and place them on a dish or in a small bowl. The more peels you have, the stronger the fragrance will be. You can even replace them once they start to dry out to keep the fresh scent going.

6. Essential Oils: A Few Drops Go a Long Way

Essential oils aren’t just for relaxing baths or creating a cozy atmosphere – they can also be a great natural solution for getting rid of fridge odors. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint have strong, fresh scents that can help neutralize any unwanted smells. Plus, they add a pleasant fragrance to your fridge that can last for a while.

To use essential oils, place a few drops on a cotton ball or a small cloth and leave it in your fridge. Be careful not to use too much – you don’t want the smell of the oils to overwhelm your food! Lavender and eucalyptus are especially good options for a fresh, clean smell.

7. Vanilla Extract: A Sweet Scent for Your Fridge

If you love the scent of vanilla, you’ll be happy to know it can also work as a natural deodorizer for your fridge. Vanilla extract has a sweet, comforting aroma that can overpower any unpleasant smells. Simply place a few drops of vanilla extract on a cotton ball or a small piece of fabric, and let it sit in your fridge. You can also add it to your cleaning solution (mix with water and vinegar) to leave a light vanilla scent behind after cleaning.

8. Newspaper: The Old-Fashioned Odor Absorber

Newspapers might be a thing of the past in many households, but they’re still incredibly effective for absorbing odors. If you have some old newspapers lying around, you can repurpose them to help freshen up your fridge. The ink in the paper has odor-absorbing properties, and the paper itself can help soak up moisture, which is a common cause of unpleasant fridge smells.

To use newspapers, crumple up a few sheets and place them in the fridge. Replace them every couple of days to keep things fresh. This is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option that works surprisingly well.

Tips for Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Fridge Long-Term

Getting rid of the smell is one thing, but keeping your fridge smelling fresh is another challenge. After all, it’s much easier to prevent odors than to deal with them once they’ve taken root. Thankfully, there are a few easy habits you can incorporate into your routine to keep your fridge smelling good for months to come.

1. Clean Regularly

The best way to maintain a fresh-smelling fridge is to keep it clean. Crumbs, spills, and spoiled food are the main culprits behind bad odors, so make a habit of wiping down your fridge regularly. Every couple of weeks, remove everything from the fridge and give it a thorough cleaning. Use a solution of warm water and mild soap or vinegar to wipe down the shelves and walls, and make sure to dry everything thoroughly afterward.

2. Store Food Properly

Improperly stored food can easily create smells in your fridge. Use airtight containers for leftovers and raw food to keep odors contained. Make sure to wrap smelly foods, like cheese or fish, in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in containers. This will help prevent the smells from spreading to other foods and keep your fridge smelling fresh.

3. Toss Expired Food Regularly

It’s easy to forget about items that have been sitting in the back of the fridge for weeks or months, but expired food is one of the biggest contributors to bad odors. Make it a habit to check expiration dates regularly and toss any food that has gone bad. This will not only help keep your fridge smelling fresh, but it will also make sure you’re only storing food that’s safe to eat.

4. Control Moisture

Excess moisture in your fridge can lead to mold, mildew, and foul odors. Make sure your fridge’s humidity settings are correct (check the manufacturer’s recommendations), and be mindful of wet produce. Use paper towels to absorb moisture from fruits and vegetables, and store them in perforated bags to allow for proper airflow.

5. Use Natural Deodorizers

In addition to the natural methods we mentioned earlier, you can also keep deodorizers in your fridge for ongoing freshness. Place a box of baking soda or a bag of activated charcoal in your fridge and replace it every few months. A few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball can also keep the scent fresh. These little steps can go a long way in maintaining a fresh-smelling fridge without the use of harsh chemicals.

6. Keep the Drip Pan Clean

The drip pan (or drain pan) at the bottom of your fridge can collect moisture and food debris, leading to unpleasant smells. Make sure to clean it every few months, as this area can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria. Check your fridge’s manual to locate the drip pan and give it a good rinse with warm, soapy water.

7. Regularly Check the Door Seal

The door seal on your fridge is crucial for keeping it airtight and energy-efficient. If the seal is cracked or damaged, it can cause moisture to build up inside the fridge, leading to odors. Regularly check the seal to ensure it’s in good condition, and replace it if necessary. A tight seal also helps keep your fridge energy-efficient.

8. Ventilate Your Fridge

Every so often, it’s a good idea to let your fridge “breathe.” Leave the door open for a few minutes (when it’s empty and unplugged) to let any trapped moisture evaporate. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming, which can lead to unpleasant smells.

I hope these natural methods help you keep your fridge smelling fresh and clean without the use of harsh chemicals! With a little attention and these simple techniques, your fridge will stay odor-free, and you can enjoy your food without worrying about funky smells.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use essential oils in the fridge?

Yes, using essential oils in the fridge is safe. Just make sure to use only a few drops on a cotton ball or fabric, and keep it away from food.

Can I use activated charcoal multiple times?

Yes, activated charcoal can be reused. Simply place it in the sun for a few hours to refresh it and continue using it in your fridge.

Do I need to clean the inside of my fridge regularly?

Yes, cleaning your fridge regularly helps prevent odors, mold, and bacteria buildup. A quick wipe-down every few weeks keeps things fresh.

Is it okay to use lemon peels in my fridge?

Yes, lemon peels are a great natural deodorizer. Their fresh scent can neutralize odors and leave your fridge smelling pleasant.

Can vinegar help with tough fridge odors?

Yes, vinegar is a powerful natural deodorizer that can help break down and neutralize tough odors in your fridge.

Do I need to replace baking soda every time it loses its effectiveness?

Yes, it’s a good idea to replace the box of baking soda every three months to ensure it continues to absorb odors effectively.

Is it okay to store food in newspapers in the fridge?

While newspapers can help absorb moisture and odors, it’s best to avoid using them to store food directly. Use them as an odor-absorbing agent, not as food storage.

Can coffee grounds be reused as a deodorizer?

Yes, coffee grounds can be reused as a deodorizer. However, their effectiveness will decrease over time, so replace them every few days.