Fill a large sink or tub with water and add two to three cups of baking soda.
Remove the shelves, drawers, and any other removable pieces from the refrigerator and soak them in the baking soda and water solution. The warm water will help to loosen any tough stains on the shelves and other pieces and the baking soda will help to deodorize. Allow the pieces to soak for at least an hour.
Mix 1/2 cup of powdered laundry or dish detergent with 1 gallon of warm water.
Dip a sponge into the soapy water and scrub the refrigerator. Wash inside and outside of the refrigerator using a medium-bristled brush to get into the hard-to-reach spaces.
Add 1 cup of baking soda to 1 gallon of warm water and rinse away the residual soap from the refrigerator with a sponge or cloth.
Wipe down the refrigerator with a towel. Leave the door open to allow the refrigerator to air out for two to three hours.
Stuff the inside of the refrigerator with crumpled up newspapers and close the door. Leave the newspaper in the refrigerator for 24 hours and replace it with new crumpled newspapers every 24 hours for 48 to 72 hours to eliminate lingering odors.
Place the shelves and drawers back into the refrigerator when the smell is gone.