Dealing with a pungent smell from spoiled food in your freezer can be unpleasant, but there are steps you can take to effectively remove the odor. Here's a guide to help you out:
Ventilate the area: Open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate through the house. This will help in reducing the concentration of the foul smell.
Remove any remaining spoiled food: Double-check that you've removed all the spoiled food from the freezer and clean it thoroughly. You may need to disassemble any removable parts and clean them separately. Use warm soapy water to clean the interior, shelves, and drawers. Rinse thoroughly to ensure there are no cleaning product residues left behind.
Use baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help absorb the unpleasant smell. Place an open container of baking soda inside the freezer and leave it there for a few days. Replace the baking soda every 24 hours until the smell starts to dissipate.
Activated charcoal: If the smell persists, you can try using activated charcoal, which is even more effective at absorbing odors. Place a few bowls of activated charcoal inside the freezer and leave them for a few days. Like with the baking soda, replace the charcoal regularly until the smell improves.
Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds can also help neutralize odors. Place dry coffee grounds in a bowl inside the freezer and let them sit for a day or two. Coffee's natural odor-absorbing properties can help combat the foul smell.
Vinegar solution: Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Use a cloth or sponge soaked in this solution to wipe down the interior surfaces of the freezer. Vinegar is excellent for neutralizing odors.
Citrus or lemon solution: Lemon has a fresh and pleasant smell that can help mask the bad odor. You can mix lemon juice with water and use it to wipe down the freezer or place lemon peels inside the freezer.
Commercial odor removers: If the smell persists despite trying the above methods, you may consider using commercial odor removers specifically designed to tackle strong odors. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Patience: Removing strong odors may take time, especially if the smell has penetrated into the freezer's insulation or surrounding materials. Be patient and repeat the steps above until the odor is significantly reduced.
Remember to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that could leave harmful residues in the freezer and potentially contaminate your food in the future.