Strong unpleasant odor inside the refrigerator even after basic cleaning.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before deep cleaning. Use non-abrasive, food-safe cleaners.

Step-by-step:

• Empty and clean: Remove all food and shelves. Wash interior surfaces with a solution of mild detergent and warm water, then with a baking soda solution.
• Clean gaskets: Gently pull back door gaskets and clean underneath with warm soapy water. Dry thoroughly.
• Drain cleaning: Flush the defrost drain with warm water and a small amount of mild disinfectant.
• Drip tray: Access the rear drip tray above the compressor and clean out any sludge or mold.
• Ventilation: Leave doors open for several hours to air out before restarting.