How to Store a Refrigerator or Freezer (Without Smells or Mold)

How to store a refrigerator or freezer seems straightforward—until you open it later and are hit with musty odors, mold growth, or lingering food smells that won’t go away. Appliances trap moisture easily, and if they aren’t prepared correctly before storage, even a short storage period can cause long-term damage.

Whether you’re moving, remodeling, downsizing, or storing an extra fridge or freezer, following the right steps will protect your appliance and save you from expensive cleaning—or replacement—later.

Below is a step-by-step guide to storing a refrigerator or freezer properly, with real-world tips that most storage guides omit.

Step 1: Empty the Appliance Completely

Before you proceed, remove all food, ice, shelves, drawers, and bins.

This matters a lot because:

• Forgotten crumbs and spills are the #1 cause of storage odors

• Removable parts trap moisture underneath them

• Ice makers and freezer trays often hold hidden water

Tip: Check door shelves and drawer tracks carefully. These are common “forgotten zones.”

Step 2: Defrost Fully

If you’re storing a freezer or a fridge with a freezer compartment, defrost it completely.

• Unplug the unit

• Leave doors open

• Allow all ice to melt naturally

• Never chip ice out (this can damage internal coils)

Place towels underneath to catch runoff and empty them frequently. Even a small amount of residual ice can become trapped moisture once the doors are closed in storage.

Step 3: Deep Clean the Interior

This is where the odors start. Once defrosted, clean all interior surfaces with a gentle yet effective solution.

Best cleaning mix:

• Warm water

• Mild dish soap

• Optional: baking soda

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach—they can leave lingering fumes that settle into plastic liners.

Remove the shelves and drawers, then clean them separately. Let everything air dry completely before reassembling.

Step 4: Dry It Longer Than You Think You Need To

This is one of the biggest storage mistakes, and where mold problems begin. Trust us, we've made the mistake before.

After cleaning:

• Leave the refrigerator or freezer open for at least 24 hours

• Use a fan if possible to circulate air

• Make sure seals, corners, and drain holes are fully dry

No moisture should remain. Even condensation can cause mold growth in a sealed appliance.

Step 5: Neutralize Odors Before Storage

Before closing the appliance for transport or storage, add odor-absorbing materials inside.

Recommended options:

• Baking soda (open box or shallow bowl)

• Activated charcoal

• Dry coffee grounds (in a breathable container)

Avoid moisture-absorbing gels that could spill or leak.

Step 6: Secure (But Don’t Seal) the Doors

This is a crucial difference between safe storage and moldy storage.

DO:

• Secure doors slightly open using a bungee cord or towel

• Allow airflow to prevent trapped humidity

DON’T:

• Tape the doors shut

• Wrap tightly in plastic with doors sealed

Airflow is your best defense against mold and mildew.

Step 7: Transport & Position It Correctly in Storage

When moving and placing the refrigerator or freezer in a storage unit (or wherever else you're going to store the appliance):

• Always transport upright

• Never store it on its side

• Elevate it slightly off the floor using pallets or boards

• Keep it away from walls to allow air circulation

Storing upright protects internal components and prevents damage to the compressor.

Best Places to Store a Refrigerator or Freezer

Where you store your refrigerator or freezer matters just as much as how you prepare it. The right location helps prevent moisture buildup, odor issues, and accidental damage during storage.

Best Storage Unit Size for a Refrigerator or Freezer

Choosing the correct unit size keeps your appliance protected without paying for unnecessary space.

• 5' x 5' storage unit
  Works for compact refrigerators, chest freezers, or small apartment fridges.

• 5' x 10' storage unit
  Ideal for full-size refrigerators or upright freezers, with room to keep doors cracked and allow airflow.

• 10' x 10' or larger
  Best if you’re storing a refrigerator alongside other household items or appliances, or during a move or renovation.

Always leave enough clearance around the appliance so air can circulate freely.

Best Type of Storage Unit for Appliances

Not all storage units offer the same environment.

• Indoor storage units
  Provide better protection from weather, dust, and temperature extremes.

• Climate-controlled storage (when available)
  Helps regulate temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of condensation—especially for long-term storage.

• Avoid outdoor-only exposure
  Storing appliances directly outdoors or in uncovered areas increases the risk of moisture buildup and rust.

Regardless of unit type, always store the refrigerator or freezer upright and slightly elevated off the floor.

Can You Store a Refrigerator at Home Instead of a Storage Unit?

If you don’t plan to rent storage, some at-home locations can work—with the right precautions.

Better at-home options:

• Dry basements with good airflow

• Climate-controlled garages

• Utility rooms with space to keep doors cracked

Locations to avoid:

• Damp basements

• Sheds or outdoor structures

• Areas prone to temperature extremes or humidity

Even at home, follow the same rules: clean thoroughly, dry completely, and keep doors slightly open.

Storage Placement Tip Most People Miss

No matter where you store it:

• Keep the refrigerator a few inches away from walls

• Avoid stacking items directly against it

• Maintain airflow around the unit at all times

Air circulation is one of the most important factors in preventing mold and lingering odors during storage.

Common Refrigerator Storage Mistakes to Avoid

These are the errors that cause most appliance damage during storage:

• Closing the doors completely

• Storing while still damp

• Leaving food residue inside

• Wrapping tightly in plastic

• Plugging it in “occasionally” inside storage

Avoiding these mistakes dramatically improves your appliance's reliability.

How Long Can You Store a Refrigerator or Freezer?

With proper preparation, refrigerators and freezers can be stored safely for months or even years.

For long-term storage:

• Check periodically if accessible

• Replace odor absorbers every few months

• Ensure doors remain slightly open

Storage Preparation Matters More Than Storage Length

Most odor and mold issues don’t come from how long an appliance is stored — they come from how it was prepared.

Taking the extra time to clean, dry, and ventilate your refrigerator or freezer before storage ensures it’s ready to use again without unpleasant surprises.

Still unsure of how to store a refrigerator or freezer in your storage unit? Contact our expert storage team for tips and tricks!