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How to Get Rid of Smell in Kitchen Cabinets: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate kitchen cabinet odors easily with this step-by-step guide using E-Cloth for simple, effective, chemical-free results.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Kitchen Cabinets

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Spray bottle
- Fan

Clear Out the Cabinets

Empty everything. Remove food jars, utensils, and anything else stored in the cabinets. Check for expired or spoiled items.
Take note of spills. Identify any visible stains or stuck-on residue for extra attention later.

Clean Thoroughly

Mix up a cleaning solution. Combine white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle (a 1:1 ratio usually works well) for a natural deodorizer.
Spray and wipe. Generously spray the inside of the cabinets and wipe with a clean cloth, paying close attention to sticky spots.
Address tough odors. For persistent spots, apply a paste made from baking soda and water, let it sit for 15 minutes then wipe it off.

Air It Out

Let fresh air in. Open cabinet doors and allow them to air dry completely. This helps dissipate lingering odors.
Position a fan. If possible, set up a fan nearby to promote faster drying and better air circulation.

Neutralize Remaining Odors

Add odor absorbers. Place an open box of baking soda, a small bowl of activated charcoal, or a few pieces of coffee on a tray inside the cabinets to absorb residual smells.
Let them sit. Leave the absorbers in place for a few days to maximize odor absorption.

Final Touch

Replace items. Once the cabinets are dry and odor-free, return the cleaned items back into the space, wiping them down if necessary.
Keep it fresh. Consider a periodic wipe-down and occasional airing out to prevent future build-up of smells.

Safety Precautions

Wear gloves: Always use rubber gloves to protect your skin from cleaning solutions and grime.
Ensure ventilation: Open windows or use a fan to avoid inhaling strong odors from vinegar or other cleaners.
Avoid mixing chemicals: Never mix vinegar with bleach or other harsh chemicals, as this can create toxic fumes.
Test surfaces: Before applying any cleaning solution, test on a small hidden area to ensure it won’t damage the cabinet finish.
Handle glass and sharp objects carefully: When removing items, watch for broken glass or sharp utensils to prevent injury.
Keep cleaning products away from children and pets: Store all solutions and odor absorbers out of reach during and after cleaning.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Kitchen Cabinets: Extra Tips

Regular Cabinet Wipe-Down

Clean cabinet surfaces at least once a week using a gentle multi-surface cleaner to prevent grease buildup.
Focus on corners and edges where food particles tend to hide.
For sticky spills, use warm water mixed with a few drops of dish soap.

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Keep Cabinets Organized

Sort items regularly to avoid overcrowding, which can trap residues and odors.
Use clear bins or organizers to keep contents visible and accessible.
Remove expired products and dispose of harmful chemicals out of reach.

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Use Natural Deodorizers

Place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of activated charcoal inside the cabinets to absorb odors.
Occasionally wipe surfaces with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. The vinegar smell dissipates quickly, leaving a fresher scent.
Refresh the deodorizers monthly for continued odor control.

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Improve Ventilation and Moisture Control

Ensure proper airflow by keeping cabinet doors slightly ajar when possible, especially after cooking.
Install a small vent or use moisture absorbers inside the cabinets to reduce humidity levels that promote odor.
Regularly check for signs of mold or mildew and address them by increasing cleaning frequency or using a mildew remover.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Kitchen Cabinets

Common Oversights in Hidden Areas

Many folks clean the obvious surfaces but forget the corners, under furniture, and behind appliances where dust loves to hide.
Spend a few extra minutes moving items aside and reaching those neglected spots to truly make your space shine.

Improper Product Usage

Using too much or the wrong cleaning product can leave streaks, cause damage, or even create more mess.
Always read the instructions, test on a small area first, and follow the recommended amounts to keep surfaces safe and clean.

Lack of Decluttering Before Cleaning

A cluttered space can hide dirt and make cleaning less effective, turning a quick scrub into a frustrating chore.
Tidy up regularly to reduce clutter—it not only creates a more organized look but also makes deep cleaning far easier.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Kitchen Cabinets

Plan Your Cleaning Schedule

Deep clean your kitchen cabinets every three months. In busy kitchens where spills and crumbs are common, this frequency helps remove buildup of food residue, grease, and moisture that can all lead to persistent smells.
Supplement with a monthly wipe-down of cabinet surfaces. This light maintenance prevents small spills and stains from hardening into odors, making the quarterly deep clean more effective.
The combination of these schedules minimizes odor-causing bacteria and mold. Regular cleaning interrupts the cycle of residue accumulation and moisture retention, which are prime contributors to that stubborn kitchen cabinet smell.

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