Quck answer
Garlic odor can be unpleasant and stubborn to remove from a refrigerator. Here are some effective methods to eliminate the smell:
1. Baking soda: Place an open container filled with baking soda inside the fridge. It will absorb the odor over time.
2. Coffee grounds: Similar to baking soda, coffee grounds can absorb strong smells. Place a bowl of used coffee grounds in the refrigerator for a few days.
3. Lemon juice: Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture inside the fridge and wipe it clean with a cloth.
4. Vinegar: Fill a bowl with white vinegar and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. The vinegar will neutralize the garlic odor.
5. Activated charcoal: Place a few pieces of activated charcoal in the fridge. It is known for its odor-absorbing properties.
Remember to clean the refrigerator thoroughly to remove any remaining garlic residue.
Garlic is a commonly used herb in cooking, loved by many but disliked by some. While the aroma of garlic is usually pleasant during meal preparation, it can become an unwanted smell if it lingers in areas where it shouldn’t, such as the refrigerator.
If the smell of garlic persists every time you open the refrigerator door, it’s important to take immediate action to eliminate the odor.
First Step: Prevention
Getting rid of the smell of garlic can be challenging once it has permeated the refrigerator. The oils from the garlic cling to the plastic surfaces in the appliance and can persist for a long time. To prevent the odor from settling into the shelves and sides of the fridge, it’s important to act quickly.
Start by removing all perishable items from the refrigerator and checking jars of garlic-based foods for loose lids. Wash the refrigerator with soap and water, making sure to rinse off any residue to prevent further odor issues.
To protect the plastic parts of the fridge, remove and clean any cooked items that contain garlic. Use a mixture of vinegar and hot water to clean the plastic vegetable and fruit bins.
Eliminating the Lingering Garlic Odor
There are several methods to remove the stubborn garlic smell from the inside of the refrigerator. Using natural, food-safe cleaners is recommended to avoid leaving behind any harsh chemical residues.
One effective method is to deodorize the fridge with vinegar. You can use plain vinegar or a mixture of vinegar, water, and other household cleaning products. Spray the inside of the refrigerator with vinegar and then follow up with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and hot water.
If there are stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and spray it with vinegar. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes before scrubbing away any residue from food or spilled liquids.
Persistent Odor Problems
A persistent garlic smell in the refrigerator can be quite unpleasant and can affect the taste of food. If cleaning the surfaces, plastic inserts, and drawers doesn’t eliminate the odor, it’s important to identify and address the source of the smell.
Remove all drawers, plastic inserts, and shelving from the refrigerator and use bleach or another commercial cleaner to thoroughly sanitize the inside of the appliance.
To eliminate odors in the refrigerator, use a cleaning product that is citrus-based or safe to use around food. Once you have finished cleaning, make sure to thoroughly rinse the appliance with a wet sponge or cloth to get rid of any leftover residue that may attract bacteria or cause unpleasant smells.
