Freezer has a persistent musty or moldy odor inside, even though it is cooling normally.

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

• Empty and inspect: Remove all food and shelves. Discard any items with freezer burn or odor.
• Clean interior: Wash all interior surfaces, shelves, and baskets with a solution of baking soda and warm water or a mild detergent. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Clean gasket: Gently pull back the door gasket folds and clean inside with a mild bleach solution (if compatible with the material) or disinfectant wipes to remove mold.
• Check drain pan: From the rear, remove and clean the drain pan above the compressor, which can harbor odors.
• Deodorize: Place an open box of baking soda or a commercial freezer deodorizer inside for several days.
• Prevent recurrence: Avoid storing unwrapped foods and clean spills promptly.