We all love that feeling of opening our fridge to find fresh ingredients and delicious snacks. But, let's be honest, sometimes our fridge can have some... unexpected smells. Maybe it's from that leftover lasagna or the veggies we forgot about. It happens!
But sometimes the smells coming from your fridge aren't just from spilled from; it's from the lack of maintenance! If it hasn't been cleaned often enough, the filters replaced often enough, or any other maintenance failure can cause odors to linger in your fridge and potentially ruin your appetite!
Thankfully, keeping your fridge fresh and clean isn't a puzzle — you just need to follow these regular maintenance tips!
1. The Basics: Regular Cleaning
The first step to a fresh-smelling fridge is regular cleaning. It might sound obvious, but life gets busy, and sometimes we forget. But using this simple routine will make it easier to keep things fresh!
Every week, quickly scan your fridge and toss out any expired items or leftovers that have been there a bit too long. Then
once a month, remove everything and wipe down all the shelves, drawers, and walls with a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Don't forget the door seals where crumbs and spills can hide! By making these steps a part of your routine, you'll have a fresher-smelling fridge in no time!
Pro Tip: Use airtight containers for leftovers to keep the food fresher and prevent any strong food smells from spreading.
2. Temperature Matters: Maintaining Optimum Coolness
The temperature inside your fridge doesn't just affect how long your food stays fresh; it can also play a role in how your fridge smells. If it's too warm, food can spoil faster, leading to unpleasant odors. On the other hand, items can freeze if it's too cold, affecting their taste and texture. So, keeping the fridge temperature at an optimum level is essential!
- Check the Settings: Most fridges should be kept between 35°F and 38°F. Freezers should be at 0°F. Make sure to check your fridge's settings and adjust if necessary.
- Use a Thermometer: Don't rely solely on your fridge's built-in thermometer. Get an appliance thermometer and place it on the center shelf. Check it regularly to ensure the temperature remains consistent.
- Avoid Overloading: While stocking up is tempting, especially before a big event, overloading your fridge can block vents and make it harder for the appliance to maintain its temperature. Give your items some space!
- Keep the Door Closed: It sounds simple, but make sure the fridge door is closed properly after use. Frequently opening the door or leaving it ajar can cause the temperature to rise.
3. Coil Maintenance for Consistent Cooling
Behind the scenes of your fridge's cooling magic are the coils, which are also related to its freshness. Over time, they can collect dust and debris, affecting their efficiency and potentially leading to inconsistent cooling — and, yes, those unwanted smells.
Be sure to unplug your fridge, locate the coils (either at the back or the bottom of the fridge), and dust off the coils with a coil brush or soft cloth. And to be more thorough, you can use the brush attachment on the vacuum to suck up any remaining dust. Don't forget to check the coils every 3 to 6 months to help your fridge run more efficiently and more fresh!
4. Refreshing Your Fridge: The Water & Ice Filter
If your fridge has a built-in water dispenser or ice maker, there's a filter working hard to ensure you get clean, fresh-tasting water and ice. But just like any filter, it doesn't last forever. Over time, it can become clogged with contaminants, affecting the taste and smell of your water and ice!
So, replace your filter every six months (or sooner if things taste funky!), and always buy the right filter for your fridge model (off-brands might not filter efficiently!). After replacing the filter, run a few gallons of water to clear any residue or carbon particles. And don't forget to reset the indicator light if your fridge model has it!
5. Natural Deodorizers: Mother Nature's Answer to Fridge Freshness
We've all been there: opening the fridge door, only to be greeted by a mystery smell. While cleaning out old food and wiping down shelves helps, sometimes you need a little extra boost to keep things smelling fresh, like natural deodorizers!
- Baking Soda: This kitchen staple is a champ at absorbing odors. Simply open a box and place it on a shelf. Remember to replace it every 30 days for optimal freshness.
- Fresh Coffee Grounds: Place a bowl of unused coffee grounds inside your fridge to absorb odors and leave a subtle coffee scent.
- Vanilla Extract: Dab a cotton ball with a few drops of vanilla extract and place it in a bowl in your fridge. It gives off a pleasant aroma and neutralizes strong odors.
- Activated Charcoal: Available at most hardware stores, activated charcoal is excellent at trapping odor-causing molecules. Place a few chunks in a breathable fabric bag and keep it in your fridge.
- Lemon or Orange Peels: After enjoying your citrus fruits, don't toss those peels! Place them in your fridge to give off a fresh, zesty scent.
- Oats: Sounds odd, but oats can act as a natural deodorizer. Place a bowl of plain oats in your fridge to help absorb smells.
Fresh Fridge, Happy Home!
A clean, odor-free fridge isn't just about a clean home; it's about health, efficiency, and delicious meals. But if you can't get the funky smell out of your fridge or experience other problems, remember our service team at Dick Van Dyke Appliance World has the expertise to help!
From maintenance to repairs, we've got your back! So, don't let fridge issues spoil your day; give us a call or drop by, and let's ensure your fridge is in top-notch condition!