Freezer interior has a strong, unpleasant odor that persists even after removing spoiled food.

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before deep cleaning. Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation.

Thorough cleaning:

• Remove all food and shelves/drawers.
• Wash interior surfaces with a solution of warm water and baking soda or mild detergent.
• Pay special attention to corners, seams, and under shelf supports.

Clean gasket and drain:

• Clean the door gasket folds with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
• Flush the defrost drain with warm water and a small amount of disinfectant, then rinse thoroughly.

Drain pan cleaning:

• Access the rear and locate the drain pan above the compressor.
• Remove and clean the pan if possible, or wipe it out in place.

Deodorize:

• After cleaning, leave the door open for several hours to air out.
• Place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb residual odors.

Test: Restore power and monitor odor over several days. Repeat cleaning if necessary.