I'm sorry to hear about the persistent smell in your fridge and freezer. There are several possible reasons why the odor might still be present, even after thorough cleaning. Let's explore some potential causes and additional steps you can take to resolve the issue:
Spoiled food residue: Despite your efforts to clean, there may still be some residue from spoiled food hiding in hard-to-reach places like the rubber gasket around the door, crevices, or behind shelves. Make sure to check these areas and clean them with a mixture of warm water and vinegar or baking soda.
Hidden spills: Sometimes, liquid spills can seep into the insulation of the fridge or freezer, causing persistent odors. If you suspect this might be the case, unplug the appliance and allow it to thaw completely. Then, clean the interior again and inspect for any hidden spills or stains.
Faulty or dirty water filter: If your fridge has a water and ice dispenser, the filter might be dirty or expired, causing unpleasant smells. Replace the water filter as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Contaminated ice maker: If your fridge has an ice maker, it might be harboring bacteria or mold, which can lead to bad smells. Clean the ice maker following the manufacturer's instructions and discard any old ice.
Mold or mildew growth: Mold and mildew can develop in dark and moist areas. Inspect the fridge and freezer carefully, especially around the drainage area, to ensure there is no mold or mildew growth. If you find any, clean it with a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild bleach solution.
Sealed-in odors: Certain foods with strong odors (e.g., onions, garlic) can leave lingering smells even after thorough cleaning. Try storing these items in airtight containers to prevent their smells from spreading.
Dead animals or insects: In rare cases, small animals or insects can get trapped in the coils or other parts of the refrigerator system, leading to foul smells. If you've checked all other possibilities, it might be worth inspecting the internal components more closely.
If you've gone through all of these steps and the smell still persists, it could indicate a more serious problem with the refrigerator's mechanical components. In such cases, it's best to contact a professional appliance repair service to diagnose and fix the issue.
Lastly, while resolving the smell issue, you can place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the fridge and freezer to absorb any lingering odors. Remember to replace these regularly as they absorb odors over time.