Keeping your refrigerator smelling fresh is essential to maintaining a healthy and pleasant kitchen environment. However, if you’ve ever experienced that unpleasant fridge odor that just won’t go away, you know how frustrating it can be to track down and eliminate the source. For St. Louis residents, factors like fluctuating humidity, seasonal temperatures, and the daily hustle of meal prep can make fridge upkeep more challenging. Whether it’s leftover food, a forgotten spill, or simply trapped bacteria, here’s how to tackle a smelly fridge with ease.

Answering The Question: How To Clean A Fridge That Smells Bad

Why Do Refrigerators Smell?

Most fridge odors stem from a buildup of bacteria on spoiled food, unclean surfaces, or even residual grime. Even after you’ve removed what seems like the source of the smell, bacteria can linger in small crevices and behind shelves, creating long-lasting odors that regular cleaning may not fix. Refrigerated food has a relatively long shelf life, but each item breaks down at a different rate, potentially introducing hidden sources of smell in packed fridges. In St. Louis, where spring and summer bring increased humidity and pollen, an open fridge can also become a magnet for outdoor particles that worsen indoor smells.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Smelly Fridge

To truly refresh your fridge, it’s best to set aside an afternoon for a thorough clean. Follow these steps to ensure a deep and effective clean.

Step 1: Remove and Inspect Foods

Begin by emptying the refrigerator of all food and drinks. Look for any items that may be the source of odor, like expired leftovers, wilted produce, or containers that have overstayed their welcome. If in doubt, it’s always better to throw an item out. Check each item’s freshness, and give it a “smell test.” Once you’ve sorted through the contents, place any questionable or spoiled items in a trash bag, and move the rest into a cooler to keep them fresh during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Unplug the Fridge and Air It Out

Once the fridge is empty, unplug it to save energy and air it out. Leaving the door open for about 15-30 minutes will allow trapped odors to dissipate. This airing-out step is essential if your fridge has been closed for a while with food that’s gone off. It’s also an excellent time to open windows and turn on a fan to improve ventilation in your kitchen.

Step 3: Prepare Your Cleaning Supplies

Gather your cleaning supplies. A few tried-and-true options include baking soda, vinegar, warm water, and a gentle dish soap. Baking soda and vinegar are natural deodorizers and won’t leave behind a harsh chemical scent. You’ll also need a clean sponge, a scrub brush for hard-to-reach spots, and perhaps some gloves if you prefer not to handle bacteria directly.

Step 4: Wash and Scrub Surfaces

Remove all drawers and shelves, if possible, and give them a good scrub with warm soapy water. This step is important, as food particles can hide in the corners and crevices of drawers. Soaking them in warm water with dish soap will help loosen any stuck-on grime. Meanwhile, use a baking soda and vinegar solution to wipe down the walls, shelves, and door compartments inside the fridge. This solution helps remove stains and neutralize any lingering odors. For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda directly onto a damp sponge or cloth and scrub in circular motions. Don’t forget the door seals, as crumbs and grime can often accumulate here, leading to unnoticed odors.

Step 5: Rinse and Air Dry

Rinse all surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning residue, as baking soda and vinegar can leave a slight film if not wiped away. Once everything has been thoroughly cleaned, allow the interior to air dry completely with the door open.

Step 6: Replace the Food and Organize

After your fridge has been fully cleaned and dried, it’s time to replace the food. This is a great time to reorganize, ensuring older items are at the front and labeling any items with dates for better tracking. Consider using clear containers to help spot food that needs to be used sooner, keeping your fridge fresher longer.

Additional Tips for Freezers and Ice Makers

If the smell lingers despite your efforts, check the freezer or ice maker, as these can also harbor bacteria. Clear out old ice, clean the ice maker’s components, and run a cleaning cycle if your fridge model offers one. If you notice ice cubes with a stale taste, clean the ice bin and replace the filter, as bacteria can often linger there.

Preventing Future Odors in Your Refrigerator

Once your fridge is back to smelling fresh, there are a few easy steps you can take to prevent odors from returning.

• Store Baking Soda in the Fridge: Place an open box of baking soda in your fridge to absorb odors continuously. Replace it every few months to maintain its effectiveness.
• Date and Label Food: Clearly label containers with dates, which will make it easier to know when items need to be tossed.
• Use Glass Containers: Switch to glass containers if possible, as they are less likely to retain odors compared to plastic. Glass also keeps food fresh longer and makes it easier to see what you have stored.
• Maintain Proper Temperature: Ensure your fridge is set to the recommended temperature (between 37-40°F) to keep food fresh and slow bacteria growth.
• Regular Quick-Cleans: Incorporate a quick wipedown of shelves and compartments into your weekly cleaning routine. A light cleaning every week can keep grime from building up and help prevent major odor issues in the future.

Contact Clean Up And Clean Out Today For Maid Services In St. Louis, Missouri

A smelly fridge can be an unpleasant reminder of how quickly things pile up in the kitchen. If you’re too busy to stay on top of deep cleaning tasks like these, let the professionals at Clean Up And Clean Out help! We offer top-notch maid services in St. Louis, specializing in thorough cleanings that tackle even the toughest kitchen messes. Our team will ensure your fridge, and every corner of your home, stays fresh and spotless. Contact Clean Up And Clean Out today to schedule a maid service appointment and experience the ease of a professionally cleaned kitchen. Call us or visit our website to learn more about our services, and let us help make a clean, fresh home a reality!