Symptoms
- Bad smell noticeable when opening the door
- Smell transfers to ice or stored food
- Odor persists after normal cleaning
- Smell stronger in certain areas like the bottom or drawers
Likely causes
- CommonSpoiled or leaked food residueJuice from thawed or leaking packages can seep into cracks and crevices, especially around drawers and gaskets.
- CommonMold or mildew in a drain or gasket foldMoist areas that don't fully dry can grow mold, which produces a musty smell.
- PossibleOdor absorbed into plastic components or insulationStrong odors (fish, certain cheeses) can penetrate porous surfaces over time.
- PossiblePower outage causing food spoilage that went unnoticedA past outage may have spoiled food that leaked and dried, leaving lingering odor.
What to do
- Remove all food and check for any leaked or spoiled items, discarding anything questionable.
- Take out removable shelves, drawers, and bins and wash them separately with warm soapy water.
- Wipe down all interior surfaces, including gasket folds and corners, with a mix of warm water and baking soda.
- Dry everything completely before putting food back, since moisture left behind can cause mold to return.
- Place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of activated charcoal inside to absorb lingering odor over a few days.
- If the smell persists after a full deep clean, check the drain area or defrost pan (if accessible) for buildup.
Tools and parts
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- Sponge or cloth
When to call a pro
If odor persists after a thorough deep clean, a technician can check for hidden buildup in the drain pan or insulation gaps.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.