From storing your family’s favourite foods to housing this week’s meal prep for busy evenings, your refrigerator is essential to everyday care. It’s important that your refrigerator looks and smells fresh to keep your food fresh, too. We’ve all been there—you open your fridge, expecting a fresh burst of cool air, but instead, you’re met with a wave of unpleasant odours. Whether it’s lingering food smells, forgotten leftovers, or an accidental spill, dealing with fridge odours is never fun. If you’ve been wondering how to get rid of fridge smell, you’re in the right place!

Keeping your fridge fresh isn’t just about getting rid of existing smells—it’s also about preventing food spoilage in the fridge and taking proactive steps to keep those nasty odours at bay. In this guide, we’ll explore the best tips and tricks to eliminate refrigerator odours while ensuring your food stays fresh for longer.

Identifying the Source of Unpleasant Odours

Before you can fix the issue, you need to know what’s causing it. Many people try to mask the smell without addressing the root cause, which only leads to a temporary fix.

Common Causes of Fridge Odours:

• Spoiled or expired food is the most common culprit!

• Spillovers in your refrigerator – Unnoticed spills can lead to persistent smells.

• Poor ventilation – A clogged or dirty vent can trap odours inside.

• Improper food storage – Strong-smelling foods can spread odours if not stored correctly.

Quick Fix:

• Do a deep clean and remove any expired food items.

• Wipe down shelves and drawers with a natural cleaner.

• Check the fridge’s drip pan—it can accumulate smelly residue over time.

Identifying and addressing the cause of odours is the first step in maintaining a fresh-smelling fridge. 

Natural Odour Eliminators for Your Fridge

Harsh chemicals aren’t the only solution when it comes to reducing food odours. There are plenty of natural odour eliminators that work just as well—if not better!

Top Natural Odour Eliminators:

• Coffee grounds – Great for neutralising strong smells.

• Lemon slices or vanilla extract – Adds a fresh scent to your fridge.

• Bicarbonate of soda deodouriser – A classic! Simply place an open container of bicarbonate of soda deodoriser in the fridge to absorb odours.

• Activated charcoal – Another powerful odour absorber that lasts for weeks.

Replace natural odour absorbers every 1–2 months for continuous freshness. Using natural odour eliminators is an easy, chemical-free way to keep your fridge smelling fresh without harming the environment.

Proper Food Storage to Prevent Odours

One of the best ways to prevent odours is by practising proper food storage to prevent odours. When food is stored correctly, smells are less likely to spread, and items stay fresher for longer.

Best Food Storage Practices:

• Use airtight containers – Prevents strong-smelling foods (like onions and cheese) from spreading odours.

• Label and date your food – This helps you track expiry dates and avoid spoiled food.

• Keep raw meat separate – Store raw meat in sealed bags or containers to prevent leakage and always store raw meat in a deep freezer.

• Store fresh herbs in water – Keeps them fresher for longer while reducing strong smells.

Quick Fix:

• Arrange food so that older items are at the front (first in, first out).

• Wipe down any bottles or jars before placing them back in the fridge.

By following proper food storage to prevent odours, you can significantly cut down on bad smells and extend the life of your groceries.

Cleaning Your Fridge the Right Way

Routine cleaning is key to eliminating refrigerator odours and maintaining hygiene. The trick is to use the right cleaning products and methods.

• Use natural cleaners – Avoid strong chemical-based cleaners that may leave behind harmful residues.

• Deep clean every month – Empty your fridge completely and wipe down all shelves and compartments.

• Don’t forget the door seals – Dirt and spills can accumulate here, contributing to bad smells.

• Clean the drip tray – Often overlooked, but a hidden source of unpleasant odours.

Use our Multipurpose Kitchen Cleaner to wipe down shelves and eliminate stubborn smells. Regular cleaning is an essential step in reducing food odours and ensuring your fridge remains fresh and hygienic.

Preventing Food Spoilage in the Fridge

A fresh-smelling fridge starts with keeping food fresh. Preventing food spoilage in the fridge means fewer expired items and less chance of odours building up.

• Maintain the right temperature – Keep your fridge at or below 4°C (40°F).

• Use fridge organisers – Helps separate different food types and prevents contamination.

• Check food expiry dates – A quick scan each week prevents unexpected bad smells.

• Keep an open box of bicarbonate of soda – Helps absorb excess moisture and odours.

• Store leftovers in clear containers so they’re easily visible and don’t get forgotten.

Preventing food spoilage in the fridge not only saves you money but also helps maintain a cleaner and fresher-smelling fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1) How can I remove the bad smell from my fridge?

A) Baking soda, coffee grounds, silica gel, and activated charcoal helps absorb odours. Put some on a plate and stick it on a shelf in the refrigerator.

Q2) What do you put in your fridge to make it smell good?

A) Place a cotton swab soaked with vanilla inside the refrigerator and freezer and close the door for 24 hours.

Q3) Should I put baking soda in my fridge?

A) Yes! Place a box or shallow dish with baking soda on the lower level to absorb freezer odours.

Q4) How do you clean a refrigerator without chemicals?

A) Use our Hygenia’s Antibacterial All Purpose Cleaner, a natural solution for cleaning fridges.

Q5) How often should I clean my fridge to prevent odours? 

A) Do a deep cleaning of your refrigerator every three to four months.

Now that you know how to get rid of fridge smell, it’s time to take action! From using natural odour eliminators to ensuring proper food storage to prevent odours, small changes can make a huge difference.

Remember, keeping your fridge fresh isn’t just about eliminating smells—it’s about preventing food spoilage in the fridge and maintaining a clean and organised space. A fresh-smelling fridge means food tastes better and lasts longer.