Mini fridges are convenient appliances for small living spaces and dorm rooms, but they can be prone to bad smells due to their limited space and frequent use. A smelly mini fridge can ruin your food, affect the taste of your drinks, and make your living space unpleasant. Therefore, it’s essential to clean your mini fridge regularly to prevent any odors from developing. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of cleaning a mini fridge that smells.
Why mini fridges are prone to smelling bad?
Mini fridges are smaller in size and capacity compared to regular refrigerators, which means that they have less space to store food and drinks. When you overstuff your mini fridge or leave items inside for an extended period, the food can spoil quickly and emit unpleasant smells like fridge smells like dead animal. Additionally, the limited air circulation in mini fridges can cause the odors to spread and become more intense over time.
A clean mini fridge is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, which can cause foodborne illnesses and affect your health. Secondly, it helps to maintain the freshness and quality of your food and drinks, ensuring that they last longer. Finally, a clean mini fridge can improve the overall appearance and smell of your living space, making it a more pleasant place to be.
Step 1: Empty the Mini Fridge
The first step in cleaning a smelly mini fridge is to remove all items from inside. Check the expiration dates of your food and discard any expired or spoiled items. Wipe down any sticky or messy spills with a cloth or paper towel.
Step 2: Unplug the Mini Fridge
Before cleaning the interior of your mini fridge, unplug it from the wall outlet. Locate the power cord at the back of the fridge and disconnect it from the outlet.
Step 3: Remove Interior Parts
Next, remove any removable shelves or drawers from the mini fridge. Soak these parts in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen any dirt or stains.
Step 4: Clean the Interior
Mix warm water and baking soda to make a cleaning solution. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub the interior of the mini fridge with the solution thoroughly. Pay close attention to the corners and crevices where odors can linger. Rinse the interior with clean water and wipe it dry with a clean towel.
Step 5: Clean the Door Seals
The door seals of your mini fridge are often overlooked when cleaning, but they can harbor bacteria and cause odors to spread. Mix warm water and vinegar to make a cleaning solution. Scrub the door seals with a toothbrush or small brush to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse the door seals with clean water and dry them with a clean towel.
Step 6: Dry the Interior and Parts
Use a clean, dry towel to dry the interior and removable parts of the mini fridge thoroughly. Leave the parts to air dry before placing them back into the fridge.
Step 7: Plug the Mini Fridge Back In
Once the interior and parts are dry, plug the mini fridge back into the wall outlet.
Step 8: Return Items to the Mini Fridge
Before returning items to the mini fridge, check the expiration dates and discard any expired or spoiled items. Place the remaining items back into the fridge, making sure not to overstuff it.
Step 9: Add Odor Absorbers
To keep your mini fridge smelling fresh, add an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the fridge. These odor absorbers can absorb any lingering smells and keep your fridge smelling fresh. Replace the odor absorber every three months for optimal results.
Step 10: Keep the Mini Fridge Clean
To prevent any future odors, it’s essential to keep your mini fridge clean regularly. Wipe up spills and messes immediately with a cloth or paper towel to prevent them from becoming stains. Clean the interior of the mini fridge every 3-6 months, depending on usage. Additionally, make sure to keep the door closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent odors from spreading.
Conclusion
Cleaning a mini fridge that smells doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these ten simple steps, you can keep your mini fridge smelling fresh and clean. Remember to empty the fridge, unplug it, remove interior parts, clean the interior and door seals, dry everything thoroughly, plug the fridge back in, return items, add odor absorbers, and keep the fridge clean regularly. Maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling mini fridge is not only good for your health but also enhances your overall living space.
Bonus: How to clean a humidifier?
