Freezer interior smells bad or of stale food, even after removing spoiled items.

Safety: Unplug the freezer before deep cleaning.

Steps:

• 1. Empty and defrost: Remove all food and shelves. Allow any ice to melt.
• 2. Clean interior: Wash all interior surfaces, shelves, and drawers with a solution of baking soda and warm water. Pay attention to corners and seams.
• 3. Clean gasket: Pull back the door gasket folds and clean thoroughly. Replace the gasket if mold is embedded and cannot be removed.
• 4. Drain pan: From the rear, remove and clean the drip tray above the compressor. Stagnant water can cause odors.
• 5. Deodorize: After cleaning, place an open box of baking soda or a fridge deodorizer inside for several days.

Note: Persistent chemical or burning smells may indicate electrical issues and should be investigated separately.