How to Clean a Smelly Fridge – 5 Best Proven Ways That Work

Why Does Your Fridge Smell?

Opening your fridge shouldn’t feel like opening a bin lid. If your fridge smells sour, fishy, or just plain off, it’s time for a proper clean. Smells are often caused by:

• Expired food or unnoticed spills
• Rotten fruit or vegetables hidden in drawers
• Mould growth in seals or corners
• Blocked fridge drain holes
• Poor airflow or fridge temperature issues

Let’s walk through 5 proven techniques to eliminate odours and leave your fridge smelling clean, fresh, and food-safe.

5 Proven Ways to Clean a Smelly Fridge

1. Deep Clean with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Unplug your fridge and remove all food. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part warm water and spray it over every surface. Follow up by scrubbing with a baking soda paste. This combo lifts stains and neutralises deep-set smells.

2. Remove and Wash All Shelves and Drawers

Take out all removable parts and soak them in hot water with a splash of vinegar. Scrub edges and corners where smells often linger. Dry thoroughly before putting them back to avoid mould.

3. Clean the Fridge Drain Hole

If your fridge keeps smelling despite surface cleaning, check the drain hole. Gunk, food particles, and mould can clog it up and cause hidden odours. Follow our full guide on how to clean fridge for detailed steps.

4. Use Natural Odour Absorbers

• Baking soda: Place an open box on a shelf. Replace every 30 days.
• Coffee grounds: Leave a small bowl in the fridge for 24 hours.
• Activated charcoal: Excellent for absorbing stubborn smells over time.

5. Air It Out and Reset

Once cleaned, leave the fridge door open for an hour or two with the power off. This gives it time to dry, and any remaining odours will ventilate. Then restock it with fresh, well-sealed food.

Pro Tips to Prevent Fridge Odours

• Wipe spills immediately — especially milk, meat juices, or sauces
• Use fridge-safe containers with tight lids
• Check drawers weekly for rotting fruit or vegetables
• Keep fridge temperature below 5°C for freshness

Need More Help? Glohus is Here

Sometimes, smells return even after a full clean. If you're dealing with recurring odours, mould issues, or fridge hygiene concerns, let the professionals step in. At Glohus, we offer professional kitchen and appliance cleaning across Hertfordshire with vetted, reliable cleaners.

Explore our kitchen deep cleaning service or book an appointment today.

Helpful External Resources

• Good Housekeeping UK – How to Clean Your Fridge
• NHS – How to Store Food and Avoid Spoilage

FAQs – Dealing with Fridge Odours

Written by Robiul Alam

Founder of Glohus Cleaning, with over 5 years of hands-on experience helping families across Hertfordshire keep their homes spotless, hygienic, and stress-free.