Strong unpleasant odor inside refrigerator even after basic cleaning

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before deep cleaning and wear gloves.

Step 1 – Empty and clean interior:

• Remove all food and shelves.
• Wash all surfaces with a solution of baking soda and warm water.

Step 2 – Clean gaskets and crevices:

• Use a soft brush to clean folds in door gaskets.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent mold.

Step 3 – Clean drain pan:

• Access the drain pan at the rear bottom.
• Remove and wash it with hot soapy water, then reinstall.

Step 4 – Deodorize:

• Place open boxes of baking soda or activated charcoal in both compartments.
• Allow the unit to run for several days; replace deodorizing media as needed.

If odor persists despite thorough cleaning, contamination may be in the insulation, which is difficult to remedy and may require professional assessment.