The Ultimate Guide to Removing Fish Smell from Your Fridge

Having a fishy odor in your fridge can be quite defeating. Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also affect the taste and smell of the other foods in your refrigerator.

Step 1: Empty the Fridge

The first step in cleaning your fridge is to empty it. This allows you to clean everything without worrying about the food getting wet or damaged.

Store items in coolers with ice packs if you have space. Transfer items to a friend's or neighbor's refrigerator. If it's safe and cold enough, leave items outside.

Step 2: Clean Out the Fridge

To effectively clean your fridge, you'll need to use a solution that removes the odor along with the grime.

Filling a bucket with hot water and adding five drops of liquid dish detergent, then cleaning with a sponge or cloth. Make sure to wring out the sponge frequently to avoid leaving excess soapy water behind. After cleaning, rinse the surfaces with clean water using a clean sponge. Create a cleaning solution for disinfection, such as: Equal parts water and white vinegar. 1 cup of bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water. Baking soda paste. 1 quart of water mixed with 1/2 cup of baking soda and a few drops of liquid dish detergent. Apply the cleaning solution and wipe down the refrigerator and freezer with a sponge or cloth. Ensure the sponge stays saturated with the solution. Rinse the surfaces with clean water. Towel dry the surfaces with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

Step 3: Olfactory Solutions

Once the cleaning is done, the next step is to use odor-absorbing materials to neutralize the smell.

Place baking soda or coffee grounds in bowls and place them in the refrigerator and freezer. Use crumpled newspaper sheets to stuff open spaces in the refrigerator. Place bowls filled with lighter-fluid free charcoal in the refrigerator and freezer.

Step 4: Re-Organize and Maintain Your Fridge

After the cleaning and odor-absorbing steps, it's time to return the food to the fridge and ensure everything stays fresh.

Plug the fridge back in, but don't put any food inside for at least 24 hours. This allows the fridge to reach its optimal temperature. Air out the fridge by leaving the doors open for at least 2 hours, up to 2 days, and ensure children and pets are not left unattended. Replace the emptied drawers, shelves, and racks after they have dried completely. To prevent future odors, ensure you clean up spills immediately, use airtight containers for leftovers, and properly seal all food items before storing them in the fridge or freezer.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove fish smell from your fridge and keep it fresh and odor-free for many months to come.