If you fail to detect freezer odor and do not clean the freezer and take steps to get rid of it, it may also spread to the other food items stored. In severe cases, it might lead to the development of mold, which might also spread to the crevices and interiors of the freezer. Getting rid of freezer odors is a task if that happens, as you will have to call a professional to do it.
Freezer odor is caused by bacteria in organic matter and due to the moisture present inside the refrigerator that helps in their growth. Proper refrigeration and not maintaining the ideal temperature helps in the growth of the bacteria as it leads to food spoilage. So, it is important to ensure that you clean your refrigerator, especially the doors and the shelves, properly.
However, simply cleaning the refrigerator might not help in some cases as the smell might still linger, so you should follow certain tips to effectively banish freezer odors. Here, we have listed out the steps as well as some tips to banish freezer odors:
- Empty the refrigerator and check the contents
If you are unable to get rid of freezer odors effectively, or if the odor keeps returning, you must check the stored food for any that might have gotten spoiled and become a breeding ground for bacteria. First, switch off the refrigerator and empty it. Then, you can use home remedies like vinegar and water or simply, soap and water, to clean all the shelves as well as the interiors of the refrigerator properly and get it to smell fresh. This is one of the most effective tips to banish freezer odors as it helps remove the breeding ground of the bacteria.
- Discard spoiled food
If the texture of any food has changed or it gives out a pungent smell, it should be discarded as it may be the reason for the foul smell in the freezer. After cleaning the refrigerator, replace the other items in the refrigerator. If there is a lingering odor in the freezer, an effective tip to banish it is to keep an open container or bowl of baking soda or fresh coffee grounds as it absorbs it.
- Ensure that you check for freshness
The freshness of food plays a major role in deciding whether your freezer will smell good. Leftovers, meat, vegetables, and fruits can all lead to the growth of odor-producing bacteria, so ensure that you check for mold whenever you’re greeted by an odor upon opening the refrigerator door.
Additionally, when buying food, ensure that you check the expiry date on the label. Dried beans and frozen and canned food can be stored for longer when unopened. However, once opened, canned food should be consumed within two to seven days, depending on whether it is fish, fruits, or something else.
