13:28 09-09-2025

Freshen Your Fridge Fast: Vinegar, Chalk, and Baking Soda

Generated by Dall-e

Eliminate fridge smells: find the source, clean with equal parts vinegar and water, then use chalk, baking soda, or salt to absorb odors. Replace monthly.

A sour note from the refrigerator isn’t a crisis. It’s a signal. Before you reach for fancy deodorizers, take a calm look inside: the culprit is usually a forgotten item that’s turned or something that’s lingered a bit too long. Clear out anything spoiled without a second thought—removing the source is half the fix.

Once that’s done, give the interior a proper reset. Mix vinegar and water in equal parts, then wipe every shelf and wall with the solution. Vinegar acts as an antiseptic, so it doesn’t just chase away the smell—it also disinfects the surfaces you touch every day.

If a faint odor still hangs around, bring in a quiet workhorse: chalk. Place a few pieces on the shelves and let them sit. Chalk absorbs odors effectively, and you can even keep it there as a preventive measure to help the air stay fresher over time.

There’s another easy standby: baking soda or plain salt. Pour a small amount into an open container and leave it in the fridge to soak up lingering scents. One important note—once either has been used this way, don’t return it to kitchen duty for cooking.

Whichever route you choose, remember that these helpers don’t last forever. Their absorbing power fades, so refresh the chalk, soda, or salt roughly once a month.

Keeping a refrigerator fresh isn’t complicated. With a quick check for problem foods, a simple vinegar-and-water clean, and low-effort odor absorbers, your fridge can stay clean and free of unpleasant smells—no special products required.