Whether you're prepping for the holidays, expecting guests, or just ready for a deep clean, now is the perfect time to give your refrigerator a refresh. A clean, odor-free fridge helps protect your food and reduce waste.

Below are three simple and unique ways to eliminate odors and keep your fridge smelling its best.

1. Optimize Your Humidity Controls

Your fridge’s humidity drawers (also known as crisper drawers) do more than offer extra storage. When set correctly, they help extend the shelf life of your produce, which can reduce the smells caused by food spoilage.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • High Humidity: Great for leafy greens like spinach and kale. The added moisture prevents them from wilting.
  • Low/Dry Humidity: Best for an assortment of fruits and vegetables, as it slows down moisture loss and reduces spoilage.
  • Countertop Storage: Items like avocados, tomatoes, mangoes, and cucumbers often last longer and taste better when stored outside the fridge.

Small changes here can have a big impact on both freshness and odor control.

2. Use a Refrigerator Deodorizer

A deodorizer is your first line of defense against lingering odors. While some fridges come with built-in filters, you can also try these simple DIY options:

  • Coffee Grounds: Place a bowl of used coffee grounds in your fridge overnight. They absorb odors and can be reused later in compost or tossed.
  • Vanilla Extract: Add 2–5 drops to a bottle cap and place it near the back of your fridge for a light, sweet scent.
  • Oatmeal: A small bowl of dry oats naturally neutralizes odors—no baking required!
  • Baking Soda: The classic choice. Open the side tab and give the box a gentle shake once a week to keep odors in check for up to a month.
  • Bleach (for extreme odors): If nothing else works, mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with a gallon of warm water. Remove all contents, then wipe down the interior thoroughly.

These easy solutions can keep smells from building up. They can also help your fridge feel fresh every time you open the door.

3. Don’t Forget the Freezer

Once the fridge is fresh, take a moment to check your freezer, especially if odors linger even after cleaning.

How to Freshen Your Freezer:

  • Defrost it: Extra ice can trap odors, so defrost if needed.
  • Clear out old food: Toss anything freezer-burned or expired.
  • Use airtight containers: This helps prevent smells from spreading.
  • Reorganize: Good airflow can make a difference in maintaining freshness.

Many of the same deodorizers mentioned above (baking soda, oats, coffee grounds) also work well in the freezer.

A Fresh Start Every Day

A clean, well-maintained refrigerator supports a healthier kitchen, helps preserve your groceries, and sets you up for stress-free meals year-round.

An APHW home warranty can help when unexpected breakdowns happen to your home systems and appliances.

Get a FREE quote today!