Removing Freezer Odor

Many alternative solutions available for odor.

Several different solutions can be used to clean the interior surface of the freezer.

Objectionable odors in the freezer may be caused by food that has been left in the freezer too long, food that has been packaged improperly, or by food that has spoiled when the electricity was off.

Several different solutions can be used to clean the interior surface of the freezer. Try them one at a time. Rinse the freezer surfaces well and dry them before trying another. Don't mix ingredients in different solutions.

• Baking soda and water may do the job. Use two tablespoons of baking soda to a quart of water.
• If the odor remains, try a vinegar and water solution. The formula is one cup of vinegar to one gallon of water.
• Household chlorine bleach may be effective. Use one-half cup of bleach to one gallon of water. No matter which solution you choose, rinse well with clear water after cleaning.

If odor remains…

• Leave crumpled newspaper in the freezer for a time.
• Charcoal briquettes or activated charcoal in an open container may help remove remaining odor.
• Other choices include coffee grounds or kitty litter left in the freezer in an open container.

If odor-causing moisture has been absorbed by the insulation of the freezer, the odor may be impossible to remove. Odor-retaining moisture that has wet the insulation is usually the source of odor. If the interior surface has been cleaned and rinsed and an unpleasant odor still remains, you may have to replace the insulation. Heat and air circulation may help.

In the meantime, if you use the freezer for storage, double wrap all food placed inside. As soon as you take food from the freezer, remove the outer wrapping before the food thaws. The odor should be in the outer wrapping, so food will not be affected.

For more information on removing freezer odor; contact your local county Extension office.