Homeowners are using unlikely tricks to make fridges smell fresh for as long as possible

A FEW simple household items are becoming go-to fridge fixes for homeowners trying to keep bad smells.

From lemon juice to charcoal, the low-cost tricks are aimed at keeping refrigerators fresher between deep cleans.

To tackle lingering odors, one option is to leave sliced lemon in the fridge for up to a week.

Another is wiping the shelves with a rag dampened with lemon juice.

Homeowners can also place an open container of charcoal inside to help absorb smells.

According to Southern Living, dry baking soda is another popular fix for keeping odors under control.

A bowl of coffee beans or coffee grounds can also be left in the fridge to cut bad smells.

Some people use a cotton ball soaked in vanilla extract for up to 24 hours.

If the smell is strong, experts say the first step is to find the source and throw it out.

Old leftovers, expired takeout and moldy produce are often to blame.

If the odor sticks around, a partial deep clean may be needed.

After cleaning, the fridge doors should be left open for about 20 minutes to air out.

For tougher smells, airing the refrigerator out for longer can help.

Keeping the fridge fresh also comes down to regular upkeep.

Once a week, homeowners should check expiry dates and toss anything that is too old.

Twice a month, it helps to wipe up spills from shelves and sticky jars or bottles.

Before food goes back in, containers should be clean and sealed well to avoid leaks.

Using bins and organizers can also stop items from getting knocked over and making a mess.

Experts also warn against using bleach or harsh chemicals inside the fridge.

They say gentler options such as dish soap, white vinegar and baking soda can clean the appliance without damaging surfaces or risking contamination.