why do old refrigerators smell so bad?

Question

I had an old fridge and whenever I placed my food in it the food would soak up the stench and be disgusting.  Now I have a new fridge and this doesn't happen!

Answer 1

There is 'new' technology in making 'white goods' [electrical items] everyday, like self defrosting  fridges, self cleaning ovens e.t.c.

So if you  keep your fridges clean, they should'nt smell.  

Answer 2

Simple: Not cleaned properly.