Nothing ruins the mood faster than opening the fridge and getting hit by that strange mix of leftover fish, onions, and old milk. I’ve been there — once, my fridge smelled so bad, even my kids complained that the “cold air stinks.” I used to think the only fix was tossing everything out or buying expensive air fresheners, but it turns out the answer was sitting right in my kitchen all along — baking soda and lemon.
This simple combination works like magic. Baking soda quietly absorbs all those bad odors hiding in corners and containers, while lemon leaves a light, clean scent that makes your fridge smell fresh again. It’s safe, cheap, and takes less than ten minutes to set up.
In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to make your own DIY fridge deodorizer using baking soda and lemon. You’ll learn why it works, how to place it correctly for better airflow, and how to handle strong smells like fish or onion. It’s one of those simple tricks that once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought deodorizers again.
Why It Works – The Simple Science Behind Baking Soda and Lemon
It’s amazing how two simple things—baking soda and lemon—can make such a difference. I didn’t believe it at first either. But after a few smelly fridge incidents over the years, I’ve learned that it’s not just a “nice smell trick.” There’s real science behind why this works so well.
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. It doesn’t just cover up smells — it actually neutralizes them. Inside your fridge, odors come from acidic and alkaline molecules released by spoiled or strong-smelling foods. Baking soda balances those molecules out, pulling them from the air and trapping them so your fridge air stays clean. That’s why a small open container of baking soda can keep your fridge fresh for weeks.
Lemon, on the other hand, brings in the freshness. The juice and peel contain natural oils that release a light citrus scent. These oils don’t just smell good — they help mask any lingering odors that baking soda hasn’t caught yet. The slight acidity of lemon also helps fight bacteria on surfaces when used in cleaning.
Together, baking soda and lemon create a simple one-two punch: baking soda absorbs bad smells, and lemon replaces them with a clean, natural fragrance. There’s no need for artificial air fresheners or chemical sprays — just honest, natural ingredients doing what they do best.
When you understand that small bit of science, you’ll see why this little combo works better than almost anything you can buy in the store.
Option A – Open Jar Method: Baking Soda + Lemon Essential Oil
This is the easiest and cleanest way to deodorize your fridge, and it only takes a few minutes to set up. I call it the “set it and forget it” method because once you place it inside, it quietly works in the background day and night.
Start by finding a small glass jar or bowl — something sturdy enough to sit safely on a shelf. Fill it with about ¼ to ½ cup of baking soda. That’s enough to handle most fridge odors without wasting product. Next, add 3 to 10 drops of lemon essential oil. If you don’t have lemon oil, you can use orange or lime — they work just as well. Stir it gently so the oil spreads evenly through the baking soda.
Now, cover the top with a piece of breathable fabric (like cheesecloth) or a lid with small holes. This keeps the powder clean while still allowing airflow. The air movement inside the fridge helps carry the odors through the baking soda, where they get absorbed.
Place the jar on a middle shelf, not the door. That’s where the air circulates the most. If your fridge tends to smell stronger (especially if you store fish, onions, or cheese), you can make two jars and place one near the bottom shelf or vegetable drawer for extra coverage.
The beauty of this method is that it works quietly — no mess, no spills. Just replace the mixture every three to four weeks, or sooner if the fridge starts smelling again. When you throw it out, don’t waste it — you can sprinkle the old baking soda in your sink drain and rinse with hot water to freshen it up too.
Option B – Lemon Slice Method: Natural and Refreshing Alternative
If you don’t have essential oils or just love the smell of fresh lemons, this method is perfect. It’s simple, natural, and gives your fridge an instant clean scent without any special tools or containers.
Start by slicing a fresh lemon into thin rounds. Place the slices in a small shallow dish — something flat and stable that won’t tip over easily. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over and around the lemon slices, just enough to coat them lightly. You can also mix in a pinch of salt if you like — it helps draw out the lemon’s natural oils faster.
Set the dish on a middle or upper shelf, where air flows most freely. The lemon slices slowly release their oils into the air, while the baking soda traps all the bad smells coming from leftovers or spilled liquids. It’s a perfect balance of freshness and odor control.
This method is especially great after cleaning out your fridge or when you’ve just removed old food. It makes the fridge smell “new” again. For best results, replace the lemon and baking soda every one to two weeks, depending on how strong your fridge odors are.
If you notice spills or damp spots, simply discard the mixture and make a fresh one — it only takes a minute. And here’s a little extra tip I learned after years of doing this: if you cut a lemon and only use half, don’t toss the other half. Just sprinkle baking soda on the cut side and leave it in a small bowl. It works beautifully and saves waste.
Odor Hot Spots & Placement – Where to Put Your Deodorizers for Best Results
Where you place your deodorizer makes a huge difference. I learned this the hard way — for a long time, I just kept a baking soda jar on the top shelf and wondered why my fridge still smelled like onions. It turns out, odors settle in certain areas more than others, especially when air doesn’t circulate well.
Think of your fridge like a little house: air flows in patterns. The middle section usually gets the best airflow, while the bottom drawers and corners tend to trap smells. If you often store meat, fish, or cheese, those sections will hold onto odors the most. The vegetable drawer can also develop a musty smell if moisture builds up.
Here’s what works best:
- Use two small deodorizers instead of one big one. Place one on the middle shelf for general odor control, and another near the meat or dairy drawer, where smells are usually strongest.
- Avoid the fridge door — it’s opened too often, so the deodorizer can’t work effectively.
- If your fridge has a freezer section, you can also put a tablespoon of baking soda in a small open dish there. It keeps ice and frozen food from picking up odors from below.
Also, remember to keep the air vents clear. When food blocks them, air can’t circulate properly, and odors stick around longer. If your fridge still smells even after cleaning and deodorizing, check those vents — they often collect tiny spills or condensation that cause hidden smells.
With the right placement, your deodorizer will last longer and work faster, keeping every corner of your fridge smelling light and clean.
After Spills or Strong Odors – How to Handle Fish, Onion, and Dairy Smells Fast
Sometimes, even with a deodorizer in place, a strong smell takes over the whole fridge — especially after something spills or spoils. I’ve had that happen plenty of times, usually with leftover fish or a forgotten container of milk. When that happens, a quick wipe and reset are all you need to bring your fridge back to normal.
Start by taking out any food or containers that might be the source. If something smells sour or off, it’s best to toss it right away. Then, mix up a simple cleaning spray: equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is amazing for neutralizing odors and disinfecting naturally.
Spray the inside of your fridge lightly, paying extra attention to shelves, drawers, and especially corners where spills like to hide. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then wipe everything dry with a clean cloth. Don’t forget to pull out the drawers if possible — I once found a bit of spilled fish sauce under mine that I didn’t even know was there!
Once your fridge is clean and dry, leave an open tray of baking soda inside for 24 to 48 hours. This step helps pull out any leftover smells that might still be floating around. For really tough odors, you can also slice a fresh lemon and leave it on a small plate alongside the baking soda. Together, they’ll reset your fridge’s air completely.
Finally, double-check that there’s no hidden culprit — sometimes it’s just a cracked container lid or a damp spot behind the shelves. Once everything’s clean and dry, put your food back neatly and let your deodorizer do its job again.
What Not to Do – Avoid These Common Mistakes When Deodorizing Your Fridge
Even simple cleaning tricks can go wrong if you don’t know what to avoid. I’ve made some of these mistakes myself — once I left a bowl of vinegar open too long and everything in the fridge started smelling like pickles! So here are a few things you should never do when deodorizing your fridge.
1. Don’t use too much vinegar or lemon directly on natural stone boards.
If you keep marble or stone cheese boards in your fridge, remove them first before wiping with vinegar or lemon. The acids can dull or damage the stone’s surface. Always use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner on those instead.
2. Don’t overfill your deodorizer jar.
More baking soda doesn’t mean better results. When it’s packed too tightly, air can’t flow through it, and it stops absorbing odors properly. A half-cup is just right for most fridges.
3. Don’t use scented candles or air fresheners.
They might mask the smell for a day or two, but they don’t fix the real problem — and the artificial scent can even stick to your food. Stick with natural deodorizers like baking soda and lemon.
4. Don’t forget to replace the deodorizer regularly.
Baking soda gets “full” after a few weeks and stops working. Mark your calendar to change it every three to four weeks, or sooner if the smell starts returning.
5. Don’t ignore the seals and edges.
The rubber seals around the fridge door can hold on to odors, especially from milk or meat drips. Wipe them down gently with vinegar water every couple of weeks.
By avoiding these little mistakes, you’ll make your DIY deodorizer last longer and keep your fridge smelling truly clean — not just covered up.
Maintenance – How to Keep Your Fridge Smelling Fresh Every Week
Once your fridge smells clean, a few simple habits can keep it that way. It only takes a few minutes a week, but it saves you from dealing with those tough odors later. Over the years, I’ve made this part of my Saturday morning routine, and my fridge has stayed fresh ever since.
1. Replace the deodorizer regularly.
Your baking soda and lemon mix works best for about three to four weeks. After that, it starts to lose its strength. I always make a new one at the start of each month — it’s quick and keeps the air inside the fridge fresh and crisp.
2. Wipe shelves weekly.
Once a week, take five minutes to wipe down the shelves and drawers with a damp cloth dipped in mild vinegar water. It helps prevent small spills or crumbs from turning into bigger odors later.
3. Keep leftovers sealed.
Always store leftovers in airtight containers. Even the tiniest leak can spread a smell through the fridge. I learned that lesson with a half-opened jar of pickles that made everything, even the butter, smell sour!
4. Check and clean the drip tray (if your fridge has one).
Some fridges have a small tray at the bottom that collects moisture. It can grow bacteria and smell over time, so check it every few months and wash it out with vinegar water.
5. Keep air flowing.
Don’t overcrowd your fridge — air needs space to move around. When airflow is blocked, odors settle and spread unevenly. Leaving a little room between containers really helps.
These tiny habits don’t take much effort but go a long way in keeping your fridge smelling naturally clean, even between deep cleans.
FAQs – Common Questions About DIY Fridge Deodorizers
1. Can I use baking soda alone without lemon?
Yes, baking soda alone works very well to absorb odors. The lemon just adds a pleasant scent and a bit of freshness, but the baking soda does most of the odor removal.
2. How often should I replace my fridge deodorizer?
Change your baking soda and lemon mixture every three to four weeks, or sooner if the fridge starts to smell again. The fresher the mix, the better it works.
3. Can I use essential oils other than lemon?
Yes, you can use orange, lime, or even grapefruit essential oils. They all add a nice citrus scent and are safe for use near food.
4. Is it safe to use this deodorizer in the freezer?
Absolutely. A small open jar of baking soda works great in the freezer too. It keeps ice and frozen food from picking up smells from below.
5. Will vinegar or lemon damage my fridge interior?
No, not if used correctly. Always dilute vinegar with water (50/50) and avoid letting lemon juice sit directly on plastic or rubber for long periods. Wipe clean and dry afterward.
6. What should I do if my fridge still smells after cleaning?
If the smell comes back quickly, check under drawers or the drip tray. Sometimes spills hide there. You can also leave an open tray of baking soda overnight to reset the air.
Also Read: Remove Urine Smell from Bathroom Floors Fast (No Bleach)
Conclusion
Keeping your fridge smelling fresh doesn’t have to mean buying expensive products or using harsh chemicals. With just a little baking soda and lemon, you can reset your fridge’s air in minutes and make it smell clean, bright, and natural again. It’s one of those small home tricks that really works — simple, safe, and cheap.
I still remember the first time I tried it after cleaning out a fridge that smelled like fish and onions. I mixed a bit of baking soda with lemon, left it overnight, and by morning the bad smell was completely gone. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to keep one jar in my fridge all the time. It’s such a small thing, but it makes opening the fridge feel fresh and pleasant every single day.
Remember, the secret isn’t just what you use, but where you place it and how often you refresh it. Give your fridge this quick 10-minute reset every month, and you’ll never have to deal with sour smells again.
Have you tried this trick yet? I’d love to hear how it worked for you — sometimes our little home hacks are what help others the most.
