Getting Rid of Lingering Odors in Your Viking Refrigerator

You emptied the shelves, wiped everything down, and the smell is still there. That is frustrating, and it usually means the source is in a spot you did not clean. Houston’s humidity also encourages mildew, so odors can return faster here than in drier places.

Where odors hide

• The door gasket folds, where crumbs and spills collect.
• The drain at the back of the fresh food compartment.
• The drip pan under the unit, if your model has an accessible one.
• Water filter housings that have sat for too long.
• Produce drawers, especially their tracks and the glass shelf above.

A thorough cleaning routine

1. Remove all food and take out shelves and drawers.
2. Wash removable parts in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Let them dry fully.
3. Wipe the interior with a solution of baking soda and warm water, then rinse with a clean damp cloth.
4. Clean the gasket with a soft brush and a cloth, getting into every fold.
5. Dry everything and leave the doors open for a short while before restocking.

Keeping it fresh

Store strong-smelling foods in sealed containers. Set an open box of baking soda on a shelf and replace it every few months. Check expiration dates weekly, and wipe up spills the same day. Skip harsh bleach or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the interior finish and leave their own smell.

If the odor has a musty or sour edge that does not fade, there may be trapped water in the drain system or a seal that lets in moist air. That is something we can inspect and correct.

Request a visit through our refrigerator repair page. We will give you the price in writing before we start, and every repair includes a 30-day workmanship warranty.