How to clean a garbage disposal 

Of all the kitchen appliances, garbage disposals are the most overlooked units when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. This is because most people assume that these magical waste disposal units get rid of all the food waste, seemingly leaving nothing behind. However, food waste gets caught around the impellers and in the hopper chamber. As a result, food debris accumulates inside the disposal unit over time, breeding bacteria that can cause foul odors and clogs. For that, it’s important to clean your garbage disposal from time to time, just like other kitchen appliances. But do you even know how to clean a garbage disposal?

If your answer is No, you’re in the right place as this article will show you various options you can use to clean your food waste disposer step-by-step! 

Best ways to clean a garbage disposal 

1. Using white vinegar and baking soda 

The baking soda and vinegar method is one of the best DIY methods of cleaning a garbage disposal as it uses all-natural ingredients. Best of all, this method has been tried out by various homeowners and really does wonders when it comes to cleaning and eliminating foul odors in your garbage disposal. 

That said, here are the steps you need to follow to clean your garbage disposal with vinegar and baking soda; 

• Remove the debris 

Before you start cleaning your garbage disposal with baking soda and white vinegar, check for large chunks of food waste inside the grinding chamber. To accomplish this, use a flashlight and tongs to check for stray scraps. 

• Add baking soda and white vinegar to the disposal

Sprinkle 1⁄3 cup of baking soda into the garbage disposal and activate the unit for 1 second to help it disperse. Allow the baking soda to sit in the disposal for about 15 minutes to give its deodorizing properties enough time to combat the smell. 

Next, pour a cup of white vinegar into the garbage disposal. Let the baking soda and white vinegar interact in the disposal for about 5 minutes until the solution starts to foam. 

• Rinse the unit with hot water 

Add a cup of boiling water to the disposal unit and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Next, run hot water from your faucet and turn on your garbage disposal until the food particles and mixture have washed away. 

2. The ice cube method 

Using dish soap and an ice cube is probably the easiest way of cleaning your garbage disposal as it requires simple ingredients. For instance, you’ll need 2 cups of ice cubes, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and a slice of lemon. After gathering these ingredients, put them into the garbage disposal, and grind them with cold running water until they’re all gone. 

However, for the sake of beginners, let’s look at the step-by-step guide you need to follow when using the ice cube method to clean your garbage disposal; 

• Sanitize the rubber splash guard 

Before cleaning the inside of your garbage disposal with ice cubes, you need to clean the wide opening that leads to the grinding chamber. This includes the black circular fan-like piece known as a rubber splash guard that is located in the sink flange. 

Spray the rubber splash guard with an all-purpose cleaner and use a designated scrub brush or old toothbrush to clean away the grime, and rinse with warm water. However, if the splash guard is worn out, the best approach is to replace it altogether. 

• Put ice cubes into the garbage disposal 

Pour 2 – 3 cups of ice cubes into the garbage disposal until the grinding chamber is full. Remember to use tongs, instead of fingers, to push down the ice cubes to ensure the chamber is completely full. 

• Add lemon and baking soda to the unit 

Add lemon and 1 tablespoon of baking soda over the ice cubes. This will help to get rid of any gunk, grease, and other unwanted residues that are stuck on the blades. To be precise, lemon will help deodorize the unit, while baking soda will offer some scrubbing power. 

• Turn on your garbage disposal 

Turn on the water and run your garbage disposal until the ice cubes form a slushy consistency. If necessary, add another 2 cups of ice cubes and repeat the process for a deep clean. Running ice cubes in a garbage disposal will break up any food waste that may be stuck onto the blades. 

• Rinse the unit with cold running water 

Finally, rinse away all the residue in the garbage disposal using cold running water. For better results, put in the stopper, fill up the sink with cold water, remove the stopper, and run the garbage disposal again. This will create a powerful whirlpool that will get rid of any leftover debris, leaving you with a clean garbage disposal. 

3. Using commercial garbage disposal cleaners 

In addition to the natural methods I’ve mentioned above, there are various cleaning products on the market that are specifically designed for garbage disposal. These cleaners contain tough, grime-fighting enzymatic ingredients that allow them to break down any buildup inside the garbage disposal. Best of all, they contain non-toxic ingredients, making them safe to drain into the septic or sewer. 

How Often Should I clean my garbage disposal? 

You clean your garbage disposal at least once every 2 weeks or once a week. However, if you don’t have time to clean your garbage disposal that often, there are a few simple tricks you can use to prevent it from producing a foul smell. For instance, you can toss lemon peels down the drain, flush the disposal with cold water and turn it on to create a natural citrus scent. Best of all, the acid in the lemon peels will give the garbage disposal a disinfecting boost and remove the stuck food debris.