Ikea Odor Contamination / Drain or Gasket Mold

Unpleasant musty or moldy odor inside the freezer, even after cleaning.

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Possible Causes

Mold growth in door gasket folds, Contaminated defrost drain, Spilled food residues in hidden areas, Long power outage with spoiled food

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug before deep cleaning; avoid harsh chemicals that can damage plastics.

Steps:

  • 1. Empty and clean: Remove all food and shelves. Clean interior surfaces with a solution of baking soda and warm water.
  • 2. Gasket cleaning: Pull back the door gasket folds and clean thoroughly with mild detergent and a soft brush.
  • 3. Drain cleaning: Flush the defrost drain with warm water and a small amount of mild disinfectant, then rinse.
  • 4. Air out: Leave the door open for several hours to dry completely.
  • 5. Persistent odors: Place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb remaining smells.
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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5
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