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How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge After Power Outage: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate fridge odors after a power outage easily with this step-by-step guide using E-Cloth for simple, effective results.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge After Power Outage

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Clean towel
- Warm water

Clear Out the Mess

Remove all food items from the fridge. Dispose of perished or questionable products immediately.
If any containers have leaked, clean them up separately to avoid spreading the odor.

Defrost and Dismantle

Unplug the fridge if it’s still on. Allow any remaining ice to melt naturally by leaving the fridge door open.
Take out removable parts such as shelves and drawers, so you can clean every corner thoroughly by hand.

Deep Clean the Interior

Mix a solution of baking soda and warm water or prepare a vinegar and water (1:1) mix. Both are excellent for cutting through lingering smells.
Wipe all interior surfaces, including the walls and door gaskets, to remove any residual food spills or smudges.

Eliminate the Odors

Dry all surfaces completely using a clean towel. Moist areas can continue to harbor smells.
Place an open container of baking soda inside the fridge. Let it sit for at least 24 hours to absorb any stubborn odors.

Keep It Fresh

Once everything is dry, put the shelves and drawers back into place.
Monitor the fridge over the next few days. If any odor lingers, repeat the cleaning process or leave the baking soda container a bit longer.

Safety Precautions

Always unplug the fridge before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards.
Wear gloves to protect your skin from spoiled food, cleaning agents, and bacteria.
Ventilate the area by opening windows or using a fan, especially if using vinegar or strong cleaners.
Dispose of spoiled food in sealed bags to prevent the spread of bacteria and lingering odors.
Do not mix cleaning chemicals (like bleach and vinegar), as this can create toxic fumes.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling spoiled food or cleaning the fridge.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge After Power Outage: Extra Tips

Immediate Safety and Preliminary Assessment

Unplug the fridge immediately to avoid any electrical hazards.
Check for visible signs of spoilage or leaks, and note any unusual smells.
Ventilate the area by opening doors or windows to disperse any odors.

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Empty and Inspect the Fridge Thoroughly

Remove all food items and dispose of anything that looks or smells off.
Examine shelves, drawers, and seals for mold or residue from spoiled items.
Set aside perishable items if they are still safe, but cool them in a controlled environment.

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Deep Clean and Neutralize Odors

Prepare a cleaning solution with warm water and white vinegar (or mild dish soap).
Wipe down all surfaces inside the fridge, including hidden corners and crevices.
For stubborn odors, leave an open box of baking soda inside once cleaned to absorb smells.

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Long-Term Maintenance and Preventive Tips

Regularly check and clean the fridge even when not facing power outages.
Place activated charcoal or a citrus-scented gel pack inside to combat future odors.
Keep a temperature log to ensure the fridge is operating within the optimal range.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge After Power Outage

Decluttering Neglect

Simplify your space: Before grabbing your cleaning tools, remove items you no longer need or use. Clutter slows you down and hides dirt.
Organize as you go: Set aside a few minutes every cleaning session to put things in their proper place. This making it easier to clean surfaces.
Clear surfaces first: A clear countertop means you can see and access the area, ensuring thorough cleaning.

Overusing Harsh Chemicals

Read labels: Not all cleaners are created equal. Use the right product for each surface to avoid damage and residue buildup.
Less is more: Over-spraying can lead to chemical buildup. A light, even application is often more effective.
Mix with care: Never mix cleaning chemicals. Stick to manufacturer instructions to maintain safety and cleaning efficiency.

Inconsistent Cleaning Routine

Schedule regular sessions: Skipping cleaning tasks until dirt piles up makes the job harder. A little daily effort goes a long way.
Stick to a plan: Create a simple checklist for weekly tasks. This helps maintain a consistent level of cleanliness without feeling overwhelmed.
Address high-traffic areas: Pay special attention to door handles, light switches, and countertops to keep germs and grime at bay.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Fridge After Power Outage

Immediate Cleaning Post-Outage

After a power outage, inspect your fridge immediately. If the outage lasted several hours, especially in warm weather, quickly discard perishable items. Cleaning the fridge as soon as possible minimizes the time for bacteria to produce persistent odors.

Regular Deep-Cleansing Routine

Integrate a deep cleaning of your fridge once a month. This isn’t just for aesthetics—it resets the environment, ensuring that any lingering odors from power interruptions or accidental spills don’t have a chance to settle in.

Periodic Spot-Checks

If you notice any off smells after an outage, do a spot clean immediately regardless of your monthly schedule. This extra check helps keep odors in check and prevents any buildup that might require a more intensive cleaning later on.

Why This Frequency?

Cleaning immediately after a power outage reduces the risk of bacteria growth, which can turn into lasting, hard-to-remove odors.
A monthly deep clean ensures that your fridge stays fresh and that any residual smells from minor spills or past incidents are thoroughly eliminated.
Spot-checks act as a safety net for unexpected issues, so you can promptly address odors before they escalate into a bigger problem.

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