How to eliminate bad smells from an old fridge with bicarbonate of soda

Many people assume that an unpleasant smell inside the fridge means they need to buy a new appliance. However, an old fridge can continue to work perfectly when a few cleaning habits remove the residues responsible for everyday discomfort.

Why do bad smells build up in the appliance?

Unpleasant smells accumulate when tiny food particles evaporate and cling to the internal surfaces. Even if the motor is running efficiently, insufficient sealing of containers allows odours to spread and affect other stored foods.

Keeping leftovers without proper protection lets vapours travel freely across every shelf. Over time, this combination creates favourable conditions for unwanted substances to settle, making a consistent weekly routine of cleaning and organisation necessary.

How does bicarbonate of soda neutralise odours so quickly?

The chemical structure of the powder acts directly on the acidic molecules responsible for bad smells, triggering a reaction that… Read more

How does bicarbonate of soda work against odours?

This powdered product works as a natural chemical neutraliser by absorbing volatile compounds released by organic leftovers. Rather than simply covering up the problem with synthetic fragrances, the compound traps gaseous molecules and restores freshness to the inside of the appliance.

Keeping this powder continuously in an open container ensures that new gases are captured before they can permeate the plastic walls. This passive action protects the quality of provisions and stops the refrigerator from transferring unusual flavours to stored food.

Below is a video from the YouTube channel A DICA DO DIA COM FLÁVIA FERRARI, which explores the points discussed in this topic in greater depth:

What is the correct weekly cleaning method?

Regular maintenance calls for a simple solution of warm water and one spoonful of the neutralising powder to clean the walls and racks. Applying this mixture routinely removes dried grease splashes, preventing bacterial colonies from developing unwanted smells in the internal compartment.

Simply wipe every surface with a soft damp cloth to degrease the shelves without damaging the thermal insulation seal. The process is quick, leaves no chemical residue and ensures that containers remain completely free from any external contamination.

Items for Neutralising Odours

Recommended resources: Elements that help capture unpleasant smells:

1. An open pot of bicarbonate of soda;
2. A container of fresh coffee grounds;
3. Small pieces of activated charcoal.

What precautions prevent bad smells from returning?

Storing food in airtight containers or dishes sealed with cling film prevents vapours and moisture from escaping. This practice stops the distinctive smells of cheese, fish and seasonings from spreading, preserving the shelf life of every stored meal.

Checking the use-by dates of stored products prevents leaves, ripe fruit and dairy products forgotten at the back from spoiling prematurely. Quickly throwing away deteriorated leftovers keeps the interior environment healthy and prevents unnecessary wear on the household appliance.

A few daily measures help keep the refrigerator protected from residue at all times:

• Store prepared dishes in containers with tightly fitting lids;
• Clean up any liquid spilled on the shelves immediately;
• Replace the pot of bicarbonate every three months to maintain absorption.

When is it worthwhile keeping an old appliance?

If the refrigeration system cools properly and the door seal closes well, the issue lies only with internal hygiene. Replacing a functional appliance because of accumulated smells creates an avoidable expense for the household budget.

With straightforward care and the strategic use of homemade absorbent products, the appliance remains useful for many more years. This routine keeps stored food safe, ensuring a practical daily life and a pleasant kitchen without financial waste.