How do you remove the smell in a refrigerator that has not been running for a week with food left in it?

Lisa
Houston

Thanks for your question Lisa!

Wow! A  refrigerator that hasn't been running for a week can generate some wicked smells especially if food was left in it during the outage. In the future, it's best to avoid odor by removing all food and leaving the door standing open (or if little kids are going to be in the proximity safety recommendations include removing the door) until power can be restored.

When it's not possible to get the food cleared out, the only way to get rid of the odors is to absorb the odors, not mask them. And because the refrigerator is food storage, you want to choose a safe product to absorb odors. There are several natural tips, we can offer you. For minimal odors you can try getting a box or two of baking soda and placing in the refrigerator.

You may have noticed that the odor doesn't just smell; it actually permeates foods changing the flavor. That can work in your favor if you take a couple of potatoes, cut them in half and place throughout the refrigerator and freezer. Potatoes are a natural odor absorbent. Finally, there are natural products on the market that can help. Merry Maids uses an all natural odor neutralizer called Fresh Wave to remove stubborn odors. Fresh Wave is also available to consumers at most Bed, Bath & Beyond stores and online at http://www.fresh-wave.com/

Have a great day!

Merry Maids

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Before following any of the cleaning information, methods, advice or suggestions above, always test a small area that is less visible first. Also, you should consult the manufacturer's care instructions and warnings before trying any of the above. Due to the general nature of the advice in this material, neither Merry Maids, L.P.®, nor its individual franchises assumes any responsibility or accepts liability for any loss, damage or injury, which may be incurred as a result of any action inspired by information, advice or suggestions through this material.