There are numerous reasons why your refrigerator may start to emit an unpleasant odor. This could be due to spoiled food, improper food storage, faulty components, or a combination of these factors.
As recommended by manufacturers, it’s advisable to thoroughly clean your refrigerator every three to four months. If you don’t use it frequently, cleaning it every six months should suffice. For businesses and restaurants, a three-month cleaning interval is recommended.
The cleaning frequency may vary depending on your usage and environmental factors. However, sometimes, regular cleaning may not be enough to eliminate the foul odor. Here are some additional tips you can try:
Citrus Peels
Citrus peels, such as those from oranges and tangerines, are rich in essential oils. These oils can effectively neutralize odors for up to three days. Simply place the peels in a corner of your refrigerator after eating the fruit. During the citrus season, you can continuously use this method to maintain a fresh-smelling fridge.
Fresh Lemons
Fresh lemons are also excellent at eliminating pungent odors. Place a slice of lemon in each compartment of your refrigerator, and let the natural essential oils do their magic.
Baking Soda and Lavender
Baking soda is a staple in many households, known for its cleaning properties. When combined with the enchanting fragrance of lavender, it becomes a powerful odor neutralizer. Mix these two ingredients, place them in a container, and put it in your refrigerator. For optimal results, use a aluminum spice container with a perforated lid to enhance the absorption process.
Clean Cotton Towels
Another simple yet effective method is to use clean cotton towels. Fold one or two towels and place them in the refrigerator. The tiny holes in the fabric will absorb the odors. After a while, remove the towels, wash them with warm water, dry them, and reuse as needed.
Coffee Grounds
Don’t discard those coffee grounds just yet! Mix them with baking soda to create a powerful odor-fighting combination. This mixture can eliminate even the most stubborn refrigerator odors.
Dried Tea
Take 50 grams of flower-scented dried tea, place it in a small cloth bag, and put it in your refrigerator. After a month, remove the tea and refresh it by drying it in the sun.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a common household ingredient that can come to your rescue. Pour vinegar into an open jar and place it in a corner of your refrigerator. When removing or adding items to your fridge, be careful not to knock over the jar.
Source: Khoevadep