Olivia Carter
Have you recently purchased a new refrigerator and noticed an unpleasant smell? Don’t worry, this is a common issue that many people experience. The “new fridge smell” is caused by the materials used in the manufacturing process and can linger for weeks or even months. Luckily, there are several effective methods you can use to eliminate this odour and enjoy fresh, clean air in your kitchen.
The first step in getting rid of the new refrigerator smell is to properly clean the interior. Start by removing all the food and shelving from the fridge. Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including the walls, shelves, and drawers. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent any moisture from lingering, as this can contribute to the smell.
Vinegar is known for its deodorizing properties and can be an excellent natural solution for eliminating fridge odours. After cleaning the interior, fill a small bowl with equal parts white vinegar and water. Place the bowl on one of the shelves and close the refrigerator door. Leave it for at least 24 hours to allow the vinegar to absorb the odour. Afterward, remove the bowl and discard the vinegar. You should notice a significant improvement in the smell.
Tips for Eliminating Odors in a New Refrigerator
When you purchase a new refrigerator, it’s not uncommon to notice a strong odor. This odor, referred to as “new refrigerator smell,” is usually the result of packaging materials, adhesives, or chemicals used in the manufacturing process. While the smell may be unpleasant, there are several methods you can try to eliminate it and get your refrigerator smelling fresh.
- Clean with vinegar: Begin by removing all the contents from your refrigerator and using a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to wipe down the interior surfaces. This will help neutralize any odors and eliminate bacteria.
- Baking soda: Place an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator to absorb any lingering odors. This natural deodorizer is effective at neutralizing smells.
- Activated charcoal: Another option is to place a bowl of activated charcoal in your refrigerator. Activated charcoal is known for its odor-absorbing properties and can help eliminate the new refrigerator smell.
- Leave the door open: Allow your refrigerator to air out by keeping the door open for a few hours. This will help dissipate any odors and freshen up the interior.
- Use coffee grounds: Place a bowl of coffee grounds in your refrigerator to help absorb odors. Coffee grounds are an effective natural deodorizer.
It’s important to note that the new refrigerator smell should dissipate on its own over time as the refrigerator continues to run and air circulates. However, if the odor persists or worsens, it may be a good idea to contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
By following these tips, you can quickly eliminate the new refrigerator smell and enjoy a fresh-smelling appliance in your home.
Clean the Interior
One of the most effective ways to get rid of the new refrigerator smell is to clean the interior properly. This will help remove any lingering odours from the manufacturing process and ensure your fridge is fresh and ready to use.
1. Remove all food and shelves
Start by taking out all the food and shelves from your refrigerator. This will give you easy access to every nook and cranny of the interior.
2. Use a natural cleaning solution
Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate odours without leaving behind any harmful chemicals or residues.
Quick Tip: Add a few drops of lemon or essential oil to the solution for a fresher scent.
3. Wipe down the interior
Start by spraying the vinegar solution onto a clean cloth or sponge, and wipe down the interior walls, shelves, and drawers of your refrigerator. Pay special attention to any areas that may have accumulated spills or stains.
Tip: For stubborn stains or sticky residue, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it off with a sponge or cloth.
4. Rinse and dry
Once you have wiped down the entire interior, rinse the cloth or sponge thoroughly to remove any remaining vinegar solution. Wipe down the interior again with clean water to remove any residue.
Finally, dry the interior using a clean towel or allow it to air dry completely before replacing the shelves and food back into the refrigerator.
By following these steps and giving your refrigerator a thorough cleaning, you can effectively eliminate the new fridge smell and ensure a fresh and pleasant aroma every time you open the door.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile and effective solution for eliminating the new refrigerator smell. Its natural deodorizing properties help absorb and neutralize unpleasant odours.
To get rid of the strong smell in your new refrigerator, follow these steps:
Gather the following materials:
- Baking soda
- A small bowl or container
Instructions:
- Clean the interior of your refrigerator with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Make sure to remove any packaging or protective films from shelves or other components.
- Pour baking soda into a small bowl or container and place it on one of the shelves. Alternatively, you can divide the baking soda into several smaller bowls and distribute them throughout the refrigerator.
- Close the refrigerator door and let it sit for at least 24 hours. During this time, the baking soda will absorb the odours and leave your fridge smelling fresh.
- After 24 hours, remove the baking soda and discard it. Wipe down the interior of the refrigerator with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
- Your refrigerator should now be free of the new refrigerator smell. If necessary, repeat the process until the odour completely dissipates.
Note: Baking soda is a safe and natural cleaning agent, so you can also use it to clean the exterior of your refrigerator. Simply make a paste using baking soda and water, apply it to any stains or dirt, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it away with a damp cloth.
Using baking soda is an easy and inexpensive way to eliminate the new refrigerator smell. It is a natural alternative to synthetic air fresheners and does not leave behind any harsh or chemical odours. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh-smelling refrigerator!
Place Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber and can be very effective at getting rid of new refrigerator smell. This is because activated charcoal has a porous structure that allows it to trap and absorb odors.
To use activated charcoal to remove the smell from your new refrigerator, follow these steps:
1. Purchase Activated Charcoal
You can find activated charcoal at most home improvement stores or online. Make sure to buy a sufficient amount to effectively cover the inside of your refrigerator.
2. Prep Your Fridge
Before placing the activated charcoal, empty your refrigerator of any food or items. Clean the interior thoroughly with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Rinse well and allow it to dry completely.
3. Place the Activated Charcoal
Take your activated charcoal and place it in a shallow container or dish. You can use a small bowl, baking dish, or even an open container. Make sure the container is clean before using it.
If desired, you can wrap the activated charcoal in a breathable cloth or place it in a mesh bag to prevent any charcoal residue from coming into contact with your food.
Place the container of activated charcoal on one of the shelves or at the bottom of your refrigerator.
4. Monitor and Replace
Leave the activated charcoal inside your refrigerator for at least 24 hours, but preferably 48 hours or longer. During this time, the charcoal will absorb the odors from the new fridge.
Once the desired amount of time has passed, remove the activated charcoal and discard it. Be cautious when discarding it as it may leave charcoal dust, so handle it carefully.
If the new refrigerator smell persists, you may need to repeat the process with fresh activated charcoal.
Note: Activated charcoal is not a long-term solution to eliminate odors. It is best used as a temporary solution until the new refrigerator smell dissipates over time.
By using activated charcoal, you can help neutralize and remove the new refrigerator smell, leaving your fridge smelling fresh and clean.
Natural Methods to Remove Refrigerator Smells
If you have recently purchased a new refrigerator, you may be dealing with an unpleasant smell that can sometimes accompany new appliances. Luckily, there are several natural methods you can use to remove refrigerator smells without the need for harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Vinegar
Vinegar is an effective and natural odor absorber. Simply fill a small bowl with white vinegar and place it on one of the refrigerator shelves. Leave it overnight or for a few days until the smell dissipates. You can also wipe down the interior of the refrigerator with a cloth dipped in vinegar to eliminate any lingering odors.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural deodorizer that can help eliminate refrigerator smells. Spread an open box or a small bowl of baking soda on a shelf and leave it inside the refrigerator for a couple of days. The baking soda will absorb the unpleasant odors, leaving your refrigerator smelling fresh. Remember to replace the baking soda regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| Vinegar |
|
| Baking Soda |
|
These natural methods are safe and effective ways to get rid of new refrigerator smells. Remember to keep your refrigerator clean, remove any spoiled food promptly, and avoid storing strong-smelling foods uncovered to prevent future odors.
Lemon and Vinegar Solution
One effective way to get rid of the new refrigerator smell is by using a lemon and vinegar solution. Both lemon and vinegar are natural cleaning agents that can help neutralize odors and leave your refrigerator smelling fresh.
To make the solution, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the mixture. Shake the bottle well to ensure that the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Next, open your refrigerator and remove all the shelves and drawers. Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior surfaces with the lemon and vinegar solution. Pay close attention to any areas where the smell seems to be concentrated, such as the door seals and crisper drawers.
For tough odors, you can also soak a cloth in the solution and place it in the fridge for a few hours. This will help to eliminate any lingering smells.
| Materials: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – Water | 1. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. |
| – Vinegar | 2. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the mixture. |
| – Lemon | 3. Shake the bottle well to combine the ingredients. |
| – Spray bottle | 4. Remove shelves and drawers from the refrigerator. |
| – Clean cloth or sponge | 5. Wipe down the interior surfaces with the solution. |
After cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe down the surfaces again to remove any residue. Once you have finished, leave the refrigerator door open for a few hours to allow any remaining odors to dissipate.
Using a lemon and vinegar solution is a simple and natural way to eliminate the new refrigerator smell. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh-smelling fridge!
Coffee Grounds
If you’re looking to remove the new refrigerator smell quickly, coffee grounds can be a great solution. Coffee has natural odor-absorbing properties that can help eliminate unwanted smells.
To use coffee grounds, start by placing a bowl or container filled with freshly ground coffee inside the refrigerator. Make sure the container is open or has a small opening to allow the aroma to spread. Leave the bowl of coffee grounds in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours.
The coffee grounds will absorb the odors, leaving your refrigerator smelling fresh and clean. Once the 24 hours are up, remove the bowl of coffee grounds and discard them. You can also use the discarded coffee grounds as a natural fertilizer for your plants.
Remember to clean the refrigerator thoroughly before using it to remove any lingering food smells. Wipe down the shelves, walls, and drawers with a mixture of warm water and baking soda, which is also great for neutralizing odors.
Using coffee grounds to get rid of the new refrigerator smell is an easy, cost-effective, and natural method. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh-smelling refrigerator!
Note: Avoid using coffee grounds if you are sensitive to the smell of coffee or if you prefer not to have any coffee scent in your refrigerator.
Vanilla Extract
One effective and natural way to get rid of the new refrigerator smell is to use vanilla extract. Vanilla extract has a pleasant, sweet scent that can help mask and neutralize odors in your refrigerator.
Instructions:
- Take a small bowl or cup and pour about 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract into it.
- Place the bowl or cup on one of the refrigerator shelves.
- Close the refrigerator door and let the vanilla extract do its magic.
- Leave the bowl or cup in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, remove the bowl or cup and discard the vanilla extract.
- Wipe down the interior of the refrigerator with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue or smell.
- The new refrigerator smell should be gone, and your refrigerator will have a pleasant vanilla scent.
If the smell persists, you can repeat the process or try other natural odor absorbers like baking soda or coffee grounds.
Tips:
- Make sure the vanilla extract you use is pure and not imitation as imitation vanilla may not have the same odor-absorbing properties.
- If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can also use a few drops of vanilla essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in the refrigerator.
- Keep the refrigerator clean and free from expired or spoiled food to prevent any unpleasant smells.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Natural and pleasant scent | – May require multiple applications for stronger odors |
| – Easily accessible and affordable | – Vanilla extract needs to be replaced after 24 hours |
| – Can also be used for baking or cooking | – Not suitable for people with vanilla allergies |
By following these steps and using vanilla extract, you can effectively eliminate the new refrigerator smell and enjoy a fresh-smelling refrigerator.
FAQ
What causes the new refrigerator smell?
The new refrigerator smell is caused by off-gassing of the materials used in the manufacturing process. This includes chemicals from the insulation, adhesives, and even the packaging materials.
How long does the new refrigerator smell last?
The duration of the new refrigerator smell can vary. In most cases, it will dissipate within a week or two. However, it can sometimes last for a few months or longer.
