Despite everyone’s best efforts, debris and buildup will eventually coat the garbage disposal grinders, weighing them down with slush, gunk, and grime. Substances such as glass and rubber can accidentally slip in, and prohibited items like corn cobs, artichokes, and large bones can clog the disposal. Buildup in the garbage disposal can lead to an outbreak of smelly bacteria, preventing the disposal and drain from functioning correctly. Keeping the disposal clean helps avoid these issues. There are several DIY cleaning methods to maintain your garbage disposal, keep your sink drain free of foul odors, and prolong the lifespan of your garbage disposal unit.
Why Should You Clean the Garbage Disposal?
Over time, water flushes away most waste, but food particles and residue still become trapped under the splash guard or inside the grinding chamber. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup can lead to unpleasant odors and may even contribute to clogs in your kitchen sink.Steps for Cleaning the Garbage Disposal
Step 1: Remove Debris
To resolve this issue, begin by removing any items that block your disposal. Before you start, please turn off the appropriate fuse for safety. You want to ensure that your disposal has no power. Then, you can use a set of tongs or pliers to remove the debris and food scraps, or an old toothbrush or scrub brush to loosen food waste in the baffles or grinding chamber. Only insert your hands when necessary; always verify the power is off beforehand.Step 2: Use Ice and Salt
Do not use a drain cleaner on the disposal, as the chemicals in it can eat away at the rubber or plastic parts of the disposal. What you do want to pour in is about two cups of ice, followed by a cup of rock salt. If you don’t have rock salt, use vinegar as an alternative. Next, turn the cold water over the disposal for 5 or 10 seconds. Running water and cleaning agents can help remove sludge from the grinders in your disposal, keeping them clear and functional.Step 3: Rinse it Out
After removing the buildup, your drain will need some help. You can plug the drain and fill it with 2 to 4 inches of water. Then you can unplug the drain as you turn on the disposal, which should clear the drain. Some will put white vinegar in the drain and add dish soap to create a soapy water mix when running water down the disposal drain. These steps should be a regular part of maintaining your drain, especially when disposing of fibrous foods. Keeping a garbage disposal clean can help prevent mold and bacteria from growing in the disposal. As the machine processes food, small particles become trapped in narrow crevices, while eggshells and their linings stick to the sides of the disposer. Even with water running through the garbage disposal, debris can still accumulate, making it essential to double-check and remove any remaining waste.How Often Should I Clean the Garbage Disposal?
Cleaning a garbage disposal at least once a week can help prevent bacteria and mold from growing in the machine, which can contribute to unpleasant odors or the spread of dangerous spores. Without regular cleaning, your unit can quickly become a smelly garbage disposal, creating unpleasant odors and health risks due to the accumulation of grime beneath the splash guard. Households that use the disposal daily or notice strong odors between weekly cleanings may benefit from more frequent cleanings. Maintaining a consistent schedule helps deodorize the unit and supports the long-term performance of even the best garbage disposal models. If you’re unsure about the condition of your disposal or how often it should be cleaned based on your usage, the professionals at A-1 Sewer & Septic Service are always here to help with expert guidance and service.Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips
Regular cleaning and proper use of your garbage disposal are key to keeping it in top shape and preventing unpleasant odors or clogs. A well-maintained disposal can help prevent food residue buildup, eliminate the risk of a smelly garbage disposal, and extend the life of even the best garbage disposal systems. Follow these simple maintenance tips to keep your unit running efficiently:- Use plenty of cold Always run cold water at full pressure while the disposal is in use, and continue running it for about 20 seconds after switching off the unit. Running water helps wash food particles down the drain and prevents grease from sticking to the blades or inside the drainpipes.
- Avoid hot water while grinding. Hot water can liquefy fats and grease, which may later solidify and stick to the internal components of your disposal, leading to odors or
- Be selective about what goes Avoid putting fibrous or starchy items like corn husks, potato peels, or large bones into the disposal. Never pour grease, coffee grounds, or pasta down the drain, as these can clog the system or damage the splash guard.
- Deep clean your disposal Aim for a deep clean at least once a month to combat odor-causing bacteria and grime accumulating in hard-to-reach places.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by one cup of Cover the drain with a stopper to contain the fizzing reaction. After letting it sit for several minutes, pour boiling water down the drain to flush it clean.
- Bleach and dish soap: Mix a gallon of warm water with a tablespoon of liquid bleach and a few drops of dish Slowly pour it down the drain, allow it to sit, then flush with hot water. Cleaning solutions or natural disinfectants sanitize and deodorize the disposal, keeping it fresh and hygienic.
- Ice cubes and citrus peels: Drop a handful of ice cubes and a few lemon peels or orange rinds into the disposal. Turn it on to clean the blades and disperse a fresh scent throughout your kitchen.
