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

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate pantry odors easily with this step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes odor removal simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Pantry

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- Container (for baking soda)

Clear Out and Inspect

Remove every item from your pantry—it's time for a clean slate. Toss anything expired or suspect.
Inspect the shelves for spills, mold, or remnants of old food that could be creating the odor.

Deep Clean the Shelves

Wipe down all shelves with warm water and a mild soap solution. Scrub away any sticky spots or residues.
Make sure to dry the surfaces completely to prevent moisture from becoming a new odor source.

Deodorize Naturally

Place a container of baking soda or activated charcoal on a middle shelf to absorb lingering smells.
Let it sit for a few days; the natural absorbers will help neutralize any stubborn odors.

Organize and Replace Items

Return only the clean, odor-free items to the pantry. Consider wiping down jars and boxes to ensure they’re fresh.
Use this opportunity to organize and prevent overcrowding, making it easier to spot any future issues early on.

Safety Precautions

Wear gloves when handling expired or moldy food to avoid skin irritation or contamination.
Use a mask if you notice mold or strong odors to prevent inhaling spores or fumes.
Ensure good ventilation by opening windows or using a fan while cleaning to disperse any airborne particles or cleaning fumes.
Avoid mixing cleaning products—stick to mild soap and water to prevent harmful chemical reactions.
Dispose of spoiled food and cleaning materials in a sealed bag to prevent spreading odors or bacteria.
Wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning and before handling food items.

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

Maintain a Consistent Cleaning Schedule

Dedicate a few minutes each day to quickly wipe down surfaces and sweep floors, ensuring messes don’t build up.
Create a weekly checklist for deep cleaning tasks that can include dusting, mopping, and disinfecting key areas.
Set reminders on your phone or calendar to keep your cleaning routine on track without overwhelming yourself.

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Address Spills and Stains Immediately

When you notice any spill in the pantry, clean it right away to prevent lingering odors and stains.
Keep a multi-surface cleaner and microfiber cloth handy near high-traffic areas for quick cleanups.
Prompt action minimizes the risk of mold growth, which can contribute to unpleasant smells.

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Declutter and Organize Regularly

Sort through pantry items periodically, discarding expired goods to reduce odor sources.
Organize shelves so that air flows easily, preventing the buildup of musty smells in closed-off spaces.
A tidy layout not only improves cleanliness but also makes it easier to spot any spills or contamination.

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Use Natural Odor Neutralizers in the Pantry

Place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal in the pantry to naturally absorb unwanted odors.
Consider adding a few drops of essential oils to a cotton ball and placing it discreetly for a subtle fresh scent.
These simple solutions are effective, inexpensive, and chemical-free, keeping your pantry smelling fresh.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Pantry

Skipping Decluttering Before Cleaning

When you clean without decluttering first, you end up moving items around instead of actually cleaning surfaces.
A tidy space makes dusting and mopping faster and more efficient.
Take a few minutes to put things in their proper place before grabbing your cleaning supplies.

Overloading on Harsh Chemicals

Using too many strong chemicals not only wastes money but can also damage surfaces over time.
Read labels to choose the right product for each surface, saving you time and effort in the long run.
Sometimes a microfiber cloth and warm water do the trick without the need for extra chemicals.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Waiting until everything is a mess makes cleaning far more overwhelming than tackling small tasks daily.
A quick daily wipe-down can reduce the need for long, deep cleaning sessions later.
Establish a routine that works for you and stick to it—consistency is key to a sparkling space.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Pantry

Regular Maintenance Frequency

Adopt a "Spot-Check" Routine Weekly – Every week, take about 5-10 minutes to inspect the pantry. This quick check helps you spot rogue spills, expired items, or any damp patches that can lead to unwanted smells. By catching issues early, you nip odor formation in the bud.
Deep Clean Every Month – Set aside time once a month for a thorough clean-out. Empty your pantry, wipe down all surfaces, and leave it open for a while to air out. This monthly deep clean ensures any residue or lingering moisture is removed, significantly reducing odor buildup.
Seasonal Overhaul if Needed – Although a weekly spot-check and monthly cleaning should suffice for most, consider a more intensive clean every few months (for instance, at the change of seasons) if you notice recurring smells. This deeper dive allows you to reorganize, check expired foods more critically, and address any hard-to-reach spots that might trap odors.

Why This Frequency Works

Prevents the Accumulation of Residue – Regular spotting and monthly deep cleans stop spills, crumbs, and moisture from building up, which are the primary culprits behind musty, stale odors.
Maintains Airflow and Reduces Dampness – By airing out the pantry during clean time, you reduce humidity levels, making it less attractive for mold growth or odor-causing bacteria.
Keeps Pest Issues at Bay – Frequent inspections and cleaning help ensure that pests, which also bring their own set of smells, have little reason to settle in your pantry.

E-Cloth

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Often crushed/less consistent fibers

No streaks with just water

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Can smear dirt around

Reduces chemicals & waste, reusable

Less eco, more waste/chemicals

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