How to get rid of the smell in a new refrigerator: reasons and solutions

Have you just purchased a new refrigerator, but instead of the joy of the new thing, you were faced with an unpleasant surprise - a persistent chemical or plastic smell? This problem is familiar to many owners of equipment Samsung, LG, Indesit and other brands. Even premium models Liebherr or Bosch sometimes “smell like a factory” the first days after unpacking.

The reason lies in the materials used in production: plastic, polyurethane foam insulation, rubber seals and even glue for fastening parts can emit volatile compounds. Fortunately, in 95% of cases the smell goes away on its own after 1–2 weeks of active use. But if you don’t want to wait or the aroma is too pungent, we will analyze in detail 7 effective ways its elimination - from folk methods to professional remedies.

Important: not all odors are the same. Chemical (sharp, reminiscent of acetone) usually comes from polyurethane foam in the walls plastic - from the internal shelves, and rubber - from the door seal. Fighting methods will differ. Also note that some models (for example No Frost) require a special approach due to the ventilation system.

Why does a new refrigerator smell: 3 main reasons

Before fighting the smell, it is worth understanding its nature. Unlike “old” refrigerators, where an unpleasant odor is often associated with defrosting or spoilage of food, in new technology production processes are to blame. Let's consider the key sources:

1. Polyurethane foam insulation. This material is used for thermal insulation of refrigerator walls. When it polymerizes (hardens), it releases formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They are the ones that give off that “chemical” smell that many compare to acetone or paint. In models with the system No Frost there is more polyurethane foam, so the smell may be more intense.

2. Plastic parts. Shelves, containers, egg trays and other internal elements are made of ABS plastic or polystyrene. When first turned on, they may “smell” due to residual process oils or incomplete polymerization. This is especially noticeable in budget models Atlant or Biryusa.

3. Rubber door seal. It is treated with special compounds for elasticity and protection against mold. These compounds can emit a specific “rubbery” odor, which intensifies when heated (for example, if the refrigerator was in the sun during transportation).

⚠️ Attention: If the smell reminds you of burnt or burnt plastic, immediately unplug the refrigerator! This may indicate a manufacturing defect (compressor overheating or short circuit). In this case, warranty repair is required.

Preparing the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time: checklist

Many people skip this step, but in vain! Proper preparation will not only speed up the dissipation of the smell, but will also extend the life of the equipment. Here's what you need to do before turning it on for the first time:

Remove all stickers, labels and transport film

Wipe the internal surfaces with a damp cloth and soapy water

Remove and wash all removable shelves, drawers, trays

Check the door seal for damage

Leave the door open for 2-3 hours for ventilation

Install the refrigerator on a flat surface (check the level)

Connect to the power supply and let it work for 1-2 hours idle-->

Pay special attention on the back wall to the refrigerator. There are often pieces of foam or shipping fasteners left behind, which can become a source of odors. In models with the system No Frost check the ventilation holes - they should not be clogged with dust or packaging material.

If your refrigerator is equipped with a function Antibacteria or Ion Fresh (as y Samsung RB37A52), activate it immediately after turning it on. These systems help neutralize odors at the molecular level. However, do not rely only on them - mechanical cleaning is still necessary.

7 ways to remove the smell in a new refrigerator

If after preparation the smell is still noticeable, we proceed to active action. We have collected 7 proven methods from budgetary public funds to professional absorbers. Choose depending on the intensity of the aroma and available ingredients.

1. Ventilation with soda or activated carbon

The simplest and safest method. Baking soda neutralizes acidic odors (including chemical ones), and activated carbon absorbs volatile compounds. Instructions:

• 🧂 Pour 2-3 tbsp on a saucer. spoons of soda or crush 10 tablets of coal.
• 📍 Place the saucer on the middle shelf of the refrigerator.
• 🔄 Close the door and leave for 12-24 hours.
• 🔁 Repeat the procedure 2-3 times if the smell does not left.

2. Vinegar or citric acid

Acids are effective against plastic and rubber odors, as they destroy the molecules of volatile compounds. Method:

• 🍋 Prepare the solution: 1 tbsp. spoon of vinegar (9%) or 1 teaspoon of citric acid per 1 liter of water.
• 🧽 Wipe all internal surfaces, including the seal.
• 🚫 Do not use undiluted vinegar - it can damage the plastic!
• ☀️ After treatment, leave the door open for 1–2 hours for ventilation.

3. Coffee beans or tea bags

Natural odor absorbers that also leave a pleasant aroma. Both ground coffee and whole beans are suitable. Algorithm:

• ☕ Take 50–100 g of coffee beans or 3–4 tea bags (black tea without additives).
• 📦 Place in an open container or place on shelves.
• ⏳ Leave for 1–2 days, then remove.

To enhance the effect, you can add a few drops citrus essential oil (orange, lemon) - it will kill the chemical aroma.

4. Special odor absorbers

If traditional methods do not help, pay attention to professional products:

• 🧪 Odor absorber "Topperr" —gel filler based on zeolite.
• 🌿 "Fresher" from Amway —neutralizes odors due to silver ions.
• 🧊 Air ozonizer —an ozone generator (for example, Atmos Venta-1500) eliminates odors in 30–60 minutes.

The cost of such products is from 200 to 2000 rubles, but they will also be useful for further use refrigerator.

5. Treatment with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide

This method is suitable for rubber seals plastic parts that cannot be removed. Instructions:

• 🧴 Mix medical alcohol (70%) with water in a 1:1 ratio or use 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• 🧽 Apply the solution to a sponge and wipe the seal and plastic elements.
• 🔄 Repeat after 12 hours if the smell remains.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use alcohol for treatment metal parts (for example, shelves in models Liebherr Premium) - this may cause corrosion.

6. Steam treatment

Hot steam helps to “drive out” volatile compounds from the pores of plastic and rubber. How to do:

• ☁️ Heat the water in the kettle until boiling.
• 🚪 Open the refrigerator door and place the container with boiling water on the bottom shelf.
• ⏳ Close the door and leave for 30-40 minutes.
• 🧹 After the procedure, wipe the condensation with a dry cloth.

To enhance the effect, add 1 tbsp to the water. a spoonful of vinegar or 5 drops of essential oil.

7. Long-term ventilation with a fan

If the smell is very persistent, use forced ventilation:

• 🌬️ Install a fan next to the refrigerator so that the air flow is directed inward.
• 🚪 Secure the door in a half-open position (for example, using clothespins).
• ⏳ Leave for 6–12 hours.

This method is especially effective for refrigerators with a No Frostsystem, where natural air circulation is limited.

What not to do when removing odors

When trying to quickly get rid of odors, many make mistakes that can harm the refrigerator or worsen the problem. This is what is strictly prohibited:

• 🧴 Use chlorine-containing products (White, Komet) - they corrode plastic and leave their own toxic odor.
• 🔥 Heating the refrigerator with a hairdryer or heater - this can deform the seal and damage the electronics.
• 🧼 Wash removable parts in the dishwasher - high temperatures and aggressive detergents will spoil plastic.
• 🚫 Seal the ventilation holes (in models No Frost) - this interferes with air circulation and can lead to breakdown.
• 🌿 Put fragrances with a strong smell inside (for example, car fresheners) - they will mix with the chemical aroma and give an unpleasant “cocktail.”

Also, you should not try disassemble the refrigerator to treat the internal walls - this will break the tightness and void your warranty. Carry out all manipulations only with removable elements or external surfaces.

⚠️ Attention: If you use ozonizer, strictly follow the instructions! Exceeding the treatment time (more than 1 hour) can lead to oxidation of metal parts and damage to plastic.

How long does it take to remove the smell?

The timing depends on the intensity of the aroma, the model of the refrigerator and the chosen elimination method. On average:

• 🕒 Weak odor (not noticeable): 2–3 days with regular ventilation.
• ⏳ Average odor (felt when opening the door): 5–7 days using absorbers.
• 🕰️ Strong odor (pungent, chemical): 10–14 days with an integrated approach (washing + absorbents + ventilation).

In refrigerators with a system No Frost the odor may last longer due to the closed circulation system air. In such cases, it helps long ventilation with a fan (see method No. 7).

If the smell does not disappear after 2 weeks of active actions, this may indicate a manufacturing defect (insufficient polymerization of polyurethane foam or low-quality plastic). In this case, contact the service center - under warranty you are required to replace the refrigerator or eliminate the defect.

How to check that the smell has gone away forever?

To make sure that the smell has completely disappeared, carry out the test:

1. Completely defrost the refrigerator (if it is a model with a drip system).

2. Wipe all surfaces with a solution of water and vinegar (1:1).

3. Place an open pack of soda inside for 12 hours.

4. After 12 hours, check - if the smell has not returned, the problem is solved. If it appears again, then the source is still active (for example, polyurethane foam continues to release VOCs).

Prevention: how to prevent the odor from appearing in the future

Even after successfully removing the odor, it is worth taking steps to ensure that it does not return. Here 5 rules of prevention:

• 📅 Regular cleaning: wash the inside of the refrigerator at least once a month with a weak solution of soda or vinegar.
• 🌿 Natural absorbents: keep an open pack of soda or coffee beans on one of the shelves.
• 🍎 Proper food storage: pack food in airtight containers, especially cheeses, sausages and fruits.
• 🔄 Ventilation: once every 2-3 months, leave the refrigerator open for 1-2 hours to ventilation.
• 🛠️ Timely repair: if the door seal has lost elasticity, replace it - this will prevent the accumulation of odors.

For refrigerators with the system No Frost It is additionally recommended to clean the ventilation holes from dust every six months using a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush. This will improve air circulation and prevent odors from stagnating.

If your refrigerator is equipped with a function Deo Fresh (as in models Samsung RB38T60), turn it on once a week for 1-2 hours. This system uses carbon filters to purify the air.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the smell in a new refrigerator

Can I use the refrigerator if it smells?

Yes, but with reservations. If the smell is weak and not chemical (does not resemble acetone or paint), you can operate the refrigerator by first washing it with a soda solution. However do not store unpackaged food in it (especially dairy, meat and bread) - they can absorb the smell.

If the aroma is sharp and pungent, it is better to wait 2-3 days, actively ventilating the refrigerator with absorbers (soda, charcoal). As a last resort, use it to store food in airtight containers.

Why does the smell intensify when you first turn it on?

When the compressor heats up and air circulates (especially in models No Frost), volatile compounds from polyurethane foam and plastic begin to be released more actively. This is normal and usually goes away in 1-2 days. To reduce the effect, before turning it on for the first time, wipe the internal surfaces with a vinegar solution and leave the door open for 3-4 hours.

Does freezing lemon help eliminate the smell?

Yes, but this is more of a masking than eliminating the cause. A cut lemon, frozen for 12 hours, will counteract the chemical smell with a citrus aroma. However, after you remove the lemon, the original smell may return. This method is best used as additionalrather than the main one.

Alternative: put a bag of orange or grapefruit zest in the freezer for 6-8 hours - the effect will be similar, but less aggressive for plastic.

What to do if the smell remains after all the procedures?

If you have tried all the methods, and the smell has not disappeared after 2 weeks, there are two possible reasons:

1. Factory defect: poor-quality polymerization of polyurethane foam or plastic. In this case, contact the service center under warranty - you are required to replace the refrigerator or eliminate the defect.
2. Improper operation: for example, you could use aggressive detergents that reacted with the plastic. Try to rinse the refrigerator with plenty of clean water and repeat the procedures with soda or charcoal.

If the refrigerator was purchased less than 14 days ago, you have the right to return it to the store under the law “On Protection of Consumer Rights” (Article 25), citing irremovable defect (persistent odor that interferes with operation).

Can scented candles or air fresheners be used?

No, it is strictly prohibited! An open flame (even from a candle) near the refrigerator can cause a fire, especially if there are flammable materials nearby (packaging, stickers). Air fresheners in cans are also not suitable - they contain chemical compounds that can react with plastic and aggravate the problem.

Alternative: use gel fresheners on a natural basis (for example, with lavender or eucalyptus extract), but place them outside refrigerator, and not inside.