3 Guaranteed Methods to Eliminate Unwanted Odors from Your Fridge

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A recent correspondence from a reader highlighted a common issue that many faces—the curious case of strange odors emanating from a refrigerator. The inquiry was filled with a sense of humor, showing the reader’s creativity as they pondered everything from “secret compartments” to the amusing notion of a refrigerator being “haunted.” Here’s the scoop on tackling this pervasive problem.

The reader described their aging refrigerator, which had begun to exude an unpleasant smell. After a power outage provided an opportunity for a thorough clean-out of the fridge and freezer, the issue persisted despite their efforts, prompting them to seek advice on potential hidden sources of the odor or the possibility of needing a replacement.

What Causes Fridge Odors?

To understand the root of the problem, it’s essential to consider how odors develop within the confines of a refrigerator. The unpleasant smells originate from food particles releasing molecules that circulate in the enclosed space. These odor-emitting molecules become notable, especially when the refrigerator door is opened, allowing them to waft into the air and reach our noses, sparking the response of distaste. Visualize these odor molecules as boats navigating the ocean of your fridge, with your nose acting as a docking port. The goal? Prevent their arrival at your nose by ensuring they have somewhere else to land.

Keeping Odors at Bay

The good news is that the reader has already undertaken an essential first step by thoroughly cleaning and organizing their fridge. Additionally, they have unwittingly posed the right question, as many refrigerators do indeed have a hidden compartment known as the drip pan. This pan collects excess moisture but can also accumulate bacteria and other organic materials, leading to malodorous conditions over time.

Usually located at the bottom of the fridge, accessing the drip pan can vary by model. Some may require removing a kick plate in the front, while others might need to be pulled out from the back. A cleaning procedure involving soap or a bleach solution should significantly improve any existing odors.

After cleaning or replacing the drip pan, the lingering smell may still pose a concern. It’s an ideal moment to address how to effectively minimize new odors from forming, touching on the methods typically used to tackle this issue—either masking the odor with more pleasant scents or actively reducing the number of odor-causing particles.

How Deodorants Work

One common approach to combat odors involves introducing less offensive scents. While this method may seem easy and economical, it comes with limitations. Products like coffee grounds, white vinegar, and scent gels can also impart their own fragrances, which might not be desirable in combination with other food items. If someone opts to use this method, placing a bowl of coffee grounds or vinegar in the fridge can help, but a new smell might replace the old one rather than eliminate it entirely.

Does Baking Soda Really Eliminate Odors?

The efficacy of baking soda as a deodorizer often raises questions. Many believe that it neutralizes bad smells, but in reality, it works by a process called adsorption, where odor molecules stick to its surface. If not properly employed—say, left in its original box—the capacity of baking soda to absorb smells is limited. Spreading it out in a bowl can enhance its effectiveness, but this method is somewhat cumbersome.

A Better Odor Solution: Activated Charcoal

For those looking for a more effective remedy, activated charcoal stands out due to its extensive surface area, allowing it to trap even more odor molecules. Available in different forms, it can often be used in DIY sachets for placement within the fridge. Although activated charcoal marketed for refrigerators may be pricier, options intended for aquarium use can be a less expensive alternative, offering similar benefits.

Ultimately, using conventional methods like baking soda can be a good start, but they often fall short in addressing persistent odors effectively. In contrast, activated charcoal provides a powerful solution that not only keeps refrigerators smelling fresh but can also be utilized in other spaces around the home that may suffer from unwanted odors.

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www.seriouseats.com