Kenmore Odor Contamination / Biological Growth

Freezer has a strong musty or moldy odor inside.

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Possible Causes

Spoiled food residue, Prolonged power outage with thawed food, Mold growth on gaskets and liners

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

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

Steps to remove odors:

  • 1. Empty the freezer: Remove all food. Discard any spoiled items.
  • 2. Clean interior: Wash all interior surfaces, shelves, and baskets with a solution of baking soda and warm water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • 3. Clean gasket: Gently scrub the door gasket folds with mild detergent and water. Dry completely.
  • 4. Deodorize: Place an open box of baking soda or a commercial refrigerator deodorizer inside and leave the door closed for several days.
  • 5. Check drain pan: From the rear, inspect and clean the drain pan, which can harbor odors if water stagnates.

Note: Persistent odors after thorough cleaning may require replacing porous components like gaskets or plastic bins.

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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5

Required Part

Door Gasket
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