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How to Get the Smell of Pepper Out of an Old Refrigerator

Odors can seep into the walls of old refrigerators and make them smell like the food their former owners kept there. These odors can be disconcerting, but you can remove smells with natural products that absorb and neutralize odors. Use products that are food-safe to avoid contaminating your refrigerator.

Things You'll Need

  • White vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • Scrub brush
  • Paper towels
  • Baking soda
  • Pan
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the contents of the refrigerator. Put the food in another refrigerator or in a cold place, as this cleaning process takes a few hours.

    • 2

      Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 cup water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle.

    • 3

      Spray the white vinegar over the inside surfaces of the refrigerator. White vinegar is natural and safe to use around food. It neutralizes odors. Let the white vinegar sit for 10 minutes.

    • 4

      Scrub the refrigerator with a soft-bristled brush until it is clean.

    • 5

      Wipe the white vinegar solution up with paper towels. White vinegar has a pungent smell but it dissipates after a few hours or when it dries completely.

    • 6

      Fill a shallow pan with baking soda. Place the pan inside the refrigerator and leave it for several hours. During this time, unplug the refrigerator and keep the door open to let it dry out.

    • 7

      Plug the refrigerator in and place an open box of baking soda on a rack. Put the food back in the refrigerator.