How to Get Rid of Bad Smells in Your Refrigerator

If you have a horrible smell in your refrigerator that you can't seem to get rid of, follow these steps to make it history. Even rotten meat has no chance. You can also ensure that you won't lose your appetite when you open the door.
Steps:
1. Remove all the items from your fridge. As you go, discard any overdue food that is developing into a science project.
2. Place any food you choose to keep in a cooler while you work. Add ice if it will be out for some time.
3. Clean all the shelves and drawers with soap and water. Don't forget to wipe as much of the walls and floor of the fridge as you can, even under the crisper drawers.
4. If the smell persists, buy some freshly ground coffee.
5. Dump 1 to 2 cups of the coffee grounds on a large plate and spread them around. Use multiple plates if the smells are extreme.
6. Place the plate on the center shelf.
7. Close the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours.
8. Dispose of the coffee grounds and replace the food.
9. Buy Baking Soda at your local grocery store.
10. Either slice off the top of the Baking Soda box or pour baking soda in plastic container.
11. Put the baking soda in your fridge, uncovered.
12. Smell your fridge about 3 days later.
13. Remove the baking soda and throw it away if it has cleared the smell.
Tips:
1. For a milder approach that can coexist with your food, leave an open container of baking soda in the fridge. In a pinch, newspaper or charcoal can also help absorb odors.
2. If you must leave a refrigerator or turned off unplugged for a period of time, clean it thoroughly first and of course remove all food. Then, leave it propped open a bit. Even clean, a warm, closed fridge is certain to smell bad in time.
3. To prevent odors in the future, make a point to look in once a week or so and remove expired food. Try looking right before you take out the trash. It's a good reminder and items don't sit around in your kitchen trash smelling bad.
4. As much as possible, contain foods in airtight containers. They will stay fresher longer and the odors will not spread as much if they do spoil.
Warnings:
1. Your fridge will smell like fresh coffee for weeks, but it will likely be better than the smell you were trying to get rid of.
2. Never clean a cold glass shelf with hot water. Either allow it to come to room temperature or use cold water. A sudden temperature change can shatter the glass.