Few things ruin the atmosphere of a home faster than stubborn food odours wafting from the kitchen. Strong smells from last night’s curry, leftover seafood, or even fresh produce can linger for days, spreading through the entire house. The good news? With the right habits and tools, you can stop odours from taking over. A premium fridge from Winnings can help by keeping ingredients fresher for longer, but pairing smart storage with a few simple strategies makes all the difference.
Start With Proper Food Storage
Most food odours come from items stored incorrectly. Leftovers in loosely covered bowls, open packets of cheese, or unsealed containers of herbs and vegetables quickly release smells into the air.
Fix: Use airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers for all leftovers and opened items. Wrap strong-smelling foods like onions or fish tightly before refrigerating. This keeps odours contained and prevents cross-contamination.
Keep Your Fridge Clean and Fresh
Even the best fridge can’t mask smells if it’s not regularly cleaned. Food particles and spills collect in drawers, seals, and shelves, feeding bacteria and mould that generate unpleasant odours.
Fix: Do a quick check weekly to clear out expired food. Wipe shelves with a mix of baking soda and warm water for a natural deodoriser. Place an open box of baking soda, coffee grounds, or activated charcoal inside the fridge to absorb lingering smells.
Ventilate While Cooking
Cooking creates some of the most powerful odours, particularly when frying, roasting, or using spices. Without proper ventilation, these smells linger on surfaces like curtains, upholstery, and even clothing.
Fix: Always use your kitchen exhaust fan while cooking. If you don’t have one, open a window or use a portable fan to push air outside. Boiling a pot of water with lemon slices or vinegar after cooking can also help neutralise odours in the air.
Clean the Sink and Drain Regularly
The kitchen sink is another common culprit. Food scraps, grease, and soap residue trapped in drains create a sour or musty smell that spreads throughout the room.
Fix: Flush drains weekly with boiling water, followed by baking soda and vinegar to break down buildup. Wipe down sink surfaces with disinfectant to stop bacteria growth.
Don’t Forget Bins and Dishcloths
Rubbish bins, compost caddies, and even damp dishcloths can quickly become sources of odour. These everyday items are often overlooked but make a big impact on overall kitchen freshness.
Fix: Empty bins regularly, clean them with disinfectant, and sprinkle baking soda at the base to absorb smells. Wash dishcloths and sponges often, replacing them before they develop a sour odour.
Add Natural Freshness
Instead of masking odours with artificial sprays, introduce natural scents that improve air quality.
- Simmer citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, or cloves on the stove for a fresh aroma.
- Keep a small plant, like basil or mint, on the windowsill for natural fragrance.
- Use essential oil diffusers with lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender for a clean, calming scent.
A Kitchen That Smells as Good as It Looks
Keeping odours under control isn’t about one big fix — it’s about small, consistent habits. Store food properly, clean as you go, and tackle hidden culprits like drains and bins. With good ventilation and natural freshness, your kitchen won’t just look tidy — it will smell inviting too.