Why does my freezer smell musty?

Author: Onie Rutherford  |  Last update: Sunday, January 4, 2026

There are several causes for bad smells coming from your freezer. Typically, the culprits are microbes – bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Although a freezer dramatically slows down the growth of most common spoilage microbes, some can still thrive if the temperature rises above -18°C (the recommended freezer temperature).

How do I get rid of the musty smell in my freezer?

Baking Soda: Place an open box or bowl of baking soda inside the freezer and close the lid. Baking soda is known for its odor-absorbing properties and can help eliminate unwanted smells. Leave it inside for a few days, then remove and discard it.

Why does my freezer have a weird smell?

Evaporator coils: The evaporator coils are responsible for cooling the freezer. If they become dirty or develop frost buildup, it can lead to odors. The buildup of debris or mold on the coils may create a musty or foul smell.

Why does my fridge smell but nothing bad in it?

If your fridge smells but no rotten food can be found, it's likely that the cause is bacteria lurking in areas of moisture in your fridge.

What does a bad refrigerator compressor smell like?

If the compressor is wearing out it tends to run hot, which can give off a smell like burning oil. If the problem is electrical, you may notice more of an electrical burning smell. Either way, a burning smell coming from your refrigerator is an indication of a problem that needs to be addressed.

Fridge has BAD Odor Smell? Here's Why!

Why does my fridge smell like mold?

Spills: Food or liquid spills in the fridge can create a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Mold: Mold can grow in the fridge, particularly in moist areas or in food. Dirty fridge: If not cleaned regularly, your fridge can become dirty and develop odors.

Why does my ice smell musty?

Any unsealed food, even cold, has a smell that will slowly mingle with and then infuse everything else in the fridge. Just like any unsealed food, your ice is also exposed to the fridge's circulating air, and it can become infused with the food particles released by uncovered food containers.

Should I put baking soda in my fridge?

Using baking soda as a cleaning agent or as a deodorizer can help your refrigerator stay clean and fresh.

How do you know if you have mold in your ice maker?

If your ice starts tasting like it was scooped out of a swamp or had an odd smell, that means you have mold in the ice machine. This sign is often the first alert for many that something's amiss inside their machine.

What is the best fridge deodorizer?

The Best: Remodeez Aqua Refrigerator Deodorizer

This means that a single Remodeez will last much longer than anything full of baking soda (though the baking soda models can be refilled). Basically, you only need to replace it every six months—which is about five months and 27 days longer than your oldest leftovers.

How to get rid of freezer smell on ice cube trays?

A: Try put the in large bowl with very hot water and generous amount, like 0.5 cups or more, of baking soda over night. I have noticed some smell on the outside in my tray but no smell in the ice it makes.

Where does the fridge drain hole go?

When condensation forms in your fridge, that water runs down the drain hole into a tray at the bottom of the appliance. The hole is usually behind the salad drawers, though this varies depending on your fridge's make and model. Check your machine's user manual if you're unsure of its location.

Why does my freezer smell so bad?

There are several causes for bad smells coming from your freezer. Typically, the culprits are microbes – bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Although a freezer dramatically slows down the growth of most common spoilage microbes, some can still thrive if the temperature rises above -18°C (the recommended freezer temperature).

How long does it take for baking soda to remove odor?

This ensures that the baking soda can absorb all the odors effectively. Let the shoes sit with the baking soda inside for at least 24 hours. This will give the baking soda ample time to absorb the odors and neutralize any bacteria. After 24 hours, shake out the baking soda into the trash or sink.

Why does my defrost smell musty?

What you're probably smelling is from the condensation that comes from the evaporator inside the heating and cooling system. Basically, water collects in that area and, if it sits long enough, creates the musty smell. Most of the water is meant to exit your car through the evaporator drain under the vehicle.

Can you put baking soda in the freezer for smell?

Sprinkle fresh coffee grounds or baking soda loosely in a large, shallow container in the bottom of the refrigerator and freezer. Place a cotton swab soaked with vanilla inside the refrigerator and freezer. Close door for 24 hours. Check for odors.

How do you deodorize a refrigerator?

For very stubborn odors, wipe down the refrigerator's interior with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. This natural deodorizer can help get rid of persistent smells.

Where is the best place to put baking soda in the fridge?

Where to Put Baking Soda in the Fridge. Refrigerator: Place a box on each fridge shelf if it is large or you tend to store many smelly foods. The best spot is in the back corner; don't forget about it. Freezer: Place a box or shallow dish with baking soda on the lower level to absorb freezer odors.

How do I get the musty smell out of my ice maker?

If mold is present, you can add 3 cups of vinegar to the water line with a funnel and turn on the ice maker so that the vinegar runs through the dispenser. Use a cup to catch the vinegar and use a toothbrush and rag to scrub the dispenser clean of any residue.

Why does my freezer make my food taste bad?

Cold, dry air is more likely to permeate foods that aren't tightly wrapped, left open or stored in frequently fluctuating temperatures. This leads to dried out sections that can affect the look, taste and texture of meats, produce and other frozen products.

Does freezing get rid of musty smell?

Put musty, dry clothing in the freezer. After a couple of hours, you will notice that the musty smell has disappeared.

How to get rid of mold smell in freezer?

Baking soda, coffee grounds, activated charcoal, or cat litter can also be left in the freezer to remove odors, and keep odors from coming back. Liquid chlorine bleach, diluted with water, can also remove bacteria and mold; however, it may damage freezer surfaces, and caution should be taken.

What is the best cleaner for the inside of a refrigerator?

Cleaning Inside of a Refrigerator

The best cleaner is a combination of abrasive salt and bubbly soda water. Create a homemade all-purpose cleaner by combining the following in a gallon of hot water: 1 cup clear ammonia, ½-cup vinegar and ¼-cup baking soda. Pour into a spray bottle, or use from a bowl with a sponge.

Why does my fridge smell bad but no rotten food?

Refrigerator smells come from either bacteria or mold, often from food spoilage or moisture buildup. The interior of the refrigerator is primarily made of plastic, and plastic absorbs odours. If the refrigerator is not regularly cleaned, it is most likely the reason why it smells.

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