Opening your kitchen cabinet and being greeted by an unpleasant odor can put a damper on your cooking experience.
Whether it’s caused by old food, moisture, or the materials inside the cabinet, that musty or stale smell can linger and affect the freshness of your kitchen.
The good news? Getting rid of cabinet odor isn’t difficult, and with a few simple steps, you can have your cabinets smelling fresh again in no time. So keep scrolling to know the fastest ways to get rid of cabinet odor –
What Causes Cabinet Odor?
Before tackling the odor, it helps to understand what’s causing it. Cabinets, especially in the kitchen, are exposed to all sorts of smells from food, spices, and moisture. Over time, these odors can build up, especially if the cabinets are not properly ventilated. Here are some common causes of cabinet odor:
- Moisture build-up: Kitchens are often humid, and if your cabinets trap moisture, they can develop a musty or mildew-like smell. This is especially true for cabinets that are near the sink or dishwasher.
- Spilled food or liquids: Even small spills from oil, sauces, or other ingredients can leave behind residue that spoils and causes a lingering odor.
- Stale air: Cabinets that aren’t opened regularly or that don’t get good airflow can develop a stale smell over time.
- Old wood or materials: If you have older cabinets, the materials may begin to break down, emitting an unpleasant odor as a result.
Knowing what’s behind the smell can help you choose the most effective method for removing it. Let’s dive into how to get rid of cabinet odor step by step.
How to Get Rid of Cabinet Odor: Step-by-Step Guide
To get rid of cabinet odor, start by cleaning the cabinets with warm soapy water, dry thoroughly, and use natural odor absorbers like baking soda, activated charcoal, or vinegar to neutralize smells.
Regular airing and moisture control will help prevent odors from returning. Follow these steps to thoroughly clean, deodorize, and prevent odors from taking over your cabinets.
Step 1: Empty the Cabinets
The first step in tackling cabinet odor is to empty them completely. This gives you access to the entire space and helps identify any specific items that may be contributing to the smell.
- Remove all contents: Take everything out of the cabinets, including food, cookware, and dishes. Inspect these items for any spills, leaks, or signs of spoilage.
- Check for moisture: As you empty the cabinets, check for any areas of moisture or dampness. If you find moisture, this may be a sign of a leak or humidity issue that needs addressing.
Step 2: Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly
Now that your cabinets are empty, it’s time to give them a good scrub to remove any grime, food residue, or mildew that could be causing the odor.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap to create a gentle cleaning solution. For a natural option, you can mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. Both solutions are safe for most surfaces and effective at cutting through grease and grime.
- Scrub the inside and outside: Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the interior of the cabinets, paying special attention to corners and crevices where crumbs and spills may be hiding. Don’t forget to clean the shelves, doors, and handles, as these areas can accumulate oils and residue.
- Rinse and dry: After scrubbing, wipe the surfaces down with a damp cloth to remove any soap or cleaner residue. Then, dry the cabinets thoroughly with a clean towel. Moisture is a major cause of odors, so ensure everything is dry before moving on.
Pro Tip: For tougher stains or lingering smells, consider adding a small amount of baking soda to your cleaning solution. Baking soda helps neutralize odors and is gentle enough for most cabinet surfaces.
Step 3: Air Out the Cabinets
Once your cabinets are clean, airing them out can help get rid of any remaining odors trapped inside.
- Leave cabinets open: Keep the cabinet doors open for several hours or overnight to allow fresh air to circulate. If possible, open windows in the kitchen to improve airflow.
- Use fans for better ventilation: Placing a fan near the cabinets can speed up the process and help any lingering smells escape more quickly.
Letting the cabinets air out ensures that any moisture evaporates, and fresh air can replace stale or musty air.
Related Post: 8 Clever Ways to Organize Your Corner Kitchen Cabinet for Maximum Storage
Step 4: Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Even after cleaning and airing out your cabinets, odors can sometimes linger. To fully neutralize any remaining smells, try using natural odor absorbers that are easy to find in your home.
Baking Soda:
- Sprinkle baking soda onto a small plate or bowl and place it inside the cabinet. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs smells over time. Leave it in the cabinet for several days to a week, replacing it if needed.
Activated Charcoal:
- Use activated charcoal in small mesh bags or containers, available at most home improvement stores. Activated charcoal is excellent at trapping and neutralizing odors and works particularly well for musty smells.
White Vinegar:
- Place a bowl of white vinegar in the cabinet for a few hours. Vinegar is another natural deodorizer that works by neutralizing strong odors. Its own smell will dissipate after the vinegar has evaporated, leaving your cabinets smelling fresh.
Coffee Grounds:
- Use dry coffee grounds as a natural odor absorber. Place some in a bowl or cloth bag inside the cabinet. Coffee grounds can absorb odors while adding a pleasant, subtle coffee scent to your kitchen.
Step 5: Prevent Future Odors
Now that you’ve successfully eliminated the odor, it’s important to take steps to keep your cabinets smelling fresh going forward.
Keep Cabinets Dry
- Control humidity: If moisture is an issue in your kitchen, consider using a dehumidifier or installing vent fans to control humidity levels. This is especially important in areas where cabinets are located near the sink or dishwasher.
- Wipe up spills immediately: If food or liquids spill inside your cabinets, clean them up right away to prevent any build-up of grime or mold.
Use Cabinet Liners
- Line your cabinets: Using shelf liners or paper towels inside your cabinets can help absorb moisture and make it easier to clean up spills. Replace the liners regularly to keep your cabinets smelling fresh.
Store Food Properly
- Use airtight containers: If you’re storing dry goods or food items in your cabinets, make sure they are in airtight containers. This not only helps preserve the food but also prevents odors from escaping and building up in your cabinets.
Regularly Deodorize
- Use odor absorbers consistently: Keep a small container of baking soda, activated charcoal, or a sachet of dried herbs in your cabinets at all times to maintain a fresh scent. Replace these every few months for maximum effectiveness.
How to Deal with Persistent Odors
If you’ve tried cleaning and deodorizing, but the smell still persists, there could be underlying issues that need attention:
Check for mold or mildew
If your cabinets are exposed to moisture regularly, mold or mildew could be growing inside. Mold not only causes odors but can also be harmful to your health. If you suspect mold, you may need to consult a professional to safely remove it.
Inspect for pests
Sometimes, the source of the odor could be rodents or insects nesting inside or near your cabinets. Check for droppings or signs of pests, and if you find any, consider hiring an exterminator.
Related Post: Easy Methods to Get Rid of That Lingering Spoiled Meat Odor
Final Words
Getting rid of cabinet odor doesn’t have to be a hassle. With some simple cleaning, natural deodorizing methods, and good ventilation, you can refresh your kitchen cabinets and eliminate unpleasant smells.
By following these steps, you can ensure that every time you open your cabinets, you’re greeted with a clean, fresh scent instead of a musty or stale odor. And with the right habits in place, your cabinets will stay odor-free for good.
