How to Fix Chemical Smells in Freezers

Mechanical malfunctions, interruptions in the flow of electricity and routine cleaning can leave major appliances with a lingering, chemical aroma. According to Linda Cobb, author of "The Queen of Clean's Complete Cleaning Guide," and the Ford Valley State University College of Agriculture website, unpleasant freezer odors can be removed using a combination of white vinegar, sweet-smelling extracts and naturally absorbent coffee grounds. This nontoxic mixture eliminates strong scents and leaves the freezer smelling fresh and clean.

Sponge
Distilled white vinegar
4 cotton balls
Vanilla, lemon, orange or almond extract
1 cup fresh coffee grounds
1 nylon stocking

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the freezer and prop the door open to increase the flow of air. Remove and discard any food items. An odd or unpleasant odor in the freezer could indicate a power failure. Food that has been repeatedly thawed and frozen is not safe to eat.
- 2
  Remove ice chunks as they melt. Once the freezer is free of frozen debris, wipe down the walls and door with a sponge that has been dipped in distilled white vinegar.
- 3
  Moisten four cotton balls with vanilla, orange, lemon or almond extract. Place one cotton ball in each corner of the freezer.
- 4
  Pour 1 cup fresh coffee grounds into an old nylon sock or stocking. Twist the end of the stocking into a knot, and place it in the center of the freezer.
- 5
  Close the freezer door. Wait 24 hours. Open the freezer and remove the coffee and the cotton balls. The chemical odor should be gone.

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