Café Microbial Growth on Interior Surfaces or Drain System

Musty or moldy odor inside the wine cooler.

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Possible Causes

Spilled wine or liquids not cleaned, standing water in drain pan, poor air circulation, door left closed for long periods with unit off

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the unit before cleaning. Use only non-abrasive, food-safe cleaners inside the cabinet.

  • Step 1 – Empty the cabinet: Remove all bottles and shelves.
  • Step 2 – Clean interior surfaces: Wipe all walls, shelves, and gaskets with a solution of mild detergent and warm water, followed by a mixture of 1 tablespoon baking soda in 1 quart of water.
  • Step 3 – Clean drain and pan: Clear the interior drain hole and clean the rear drain pan to remove stagnant water and residue.
  • Step 4 – Dry thoroughly: Leave the door open for several hours to allow complete drying and odor dissipation.
  • Step 5 – Prevent recurrence: Quickly clean any future spills and ensure the door is not left closed with the unit turned off for long periods.

Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage interior finishes or leave strong residual odors.

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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5
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