Removing Odors From Refrigerators and Freezers

Whether it is due to a winter storm or a mal-functioning appliance, refrigerators and freezers do sometimes fail to work. When that happens we are often left with objectionable odors that are difficult to remove. The University of Missouri has produced a publication Removing Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers that is summarized below.

These odors can be difficult to remove. Insulation absorbs some of the odor and sometimes makes removal impossible. Plastic-lined interiors absorb more odors than porcelain enamel on steel interiors.

To remove odor, use only one of the following cleaning materials. Combining two of these may develop a toxic fume that could be fatal if inhaled.

Vinegar - one cup per gallon of water
Household ammonia - one cup per gallon
Chlorine bleach - 1/2 cup per gallon of water

Wash the refrigerator with the solution. Rinse with clear water and dry.
A second method for removing odor is to use one of the following to absorb moisture that contains the odor:

Activated charcoal
Silica gel
Kitty litter
Chloride of lime (slack lime)
These products may be available at pet shops, hobby shops, farm-supply stores, or hardware stores.

Follow these steps to remove odors:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator.
   
2. Clean the refrigerator using a solution of two tablespoons soda per gallon of warm water.
   
3. Place charcoal, kitty litter, or silica gel on paper plates in the refrigerator.
   
4. You will need heat and forced air circulation, such as that provided by a heater fan or hair dryer. Place the heater fan or hair dryer in the refrigerator.
   
5. Leave the door open. Turn on the fan and heater. This can be a fire hazard, so keep a careful watch on the refrigerator while the fan or hair dryer is in operation.

Be sure the refrigerator or freezer is disconnected when the fan and heater or hair dryer is in use. If the odor still remains after trying one or more of these methods, write to the manufacturer. The address should be on the name plate of the appliance or in the instruction book.