When regular cleaning isn’t sufficient, this approach is effective. Newspapers and charcoal absorb odors rather than just masking them.
The explanation
Newspaper that is crumpled absorbs odor and water molecules from the atmosphere.
Deeper, more persistent odors are trapped by activated charcoal.
They brought the fridge’s “air” back to normal.
Using This Method: A Simple Guide
1. empty the refrigerator entirely
Remove all food and removable shelves/drawers.
2. Wash every detachable component.
Use a solution of mild dish detergent and warm water.
For a more thorough cleaning, use a mild bleach solution or a disinfectant replacement.
3. Give everything a good drying.
Odors are kept alive by moisture.
4. Put newspapers in there after crumpling them.
Use a lot of newspaper balls that have been crumpled.
Make sure all shelves are filled; more coverage equals greater absorption.
5. Include a bowl of activated charcoal.
Put one or two bowls of activated charcoal (or refrigerator charcoal packs) on different shelves.
Charcoal is far more potent than baking soda.
6. Wait 48 hours after shutting the refrigerator.
Unless necessary, don’t open it.
7. Do a sniff test after removing everything.
The majority of odors will be gone. If not, go through it again.
Example from real life
A user emptied their refrigerator, washed everything with a mild bleach solution, and then included the following:
Newspapers scattered everywhere
activated charcoal in a bowl
The stench had vanished entirely after two days, even a persistent, intense odor.
Additional Advice
Check if the odor reappears:
A clogged refrigerator drain hole
A spill below the crisper drawers
Food remnants inside the door seals
Use the charcoal trick once more after cleaning those areas.