How to Clean a Garbage Disposal

Vertical Plumbing
Nov 3
2 min read

Your garbage disposal works hard every day, grinding up food scraps to keep your kitchen clean. But over time, grease, debris, and food residue can build up, leading to bad smells and slower performance. Regular cleaning keeps your disposal running smoothly and prevents costly plumbing issues.

Why Cleaning Your Garbage Disposal Matters

Prevents odors: Food particles stuck in the blades or drain can cause unpleasant smells.
Improves performance: A clean disposal grinds faster and drains better.
Extends its lifespan: Regular cleaning reduces wear and tear on the motor and blades.
Prevents clogs: Keeping buildup out of the drain prevents backups and costly repairs.

Step by Step

Turn off the power
Always switch off the disposal and unplug it if possible for safety.
Remove visible debris
Use tongs or pliers to pull out any large food particles or items stuck inside.
Clean the splash guard
Wipe the rubber splash guard with a sponge and dish soap it traps a lot of grime.
Scrub with baking soda and vinegar
Pour ½ cup of baking soda, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 10 minutes to break down grease and odors.
Rinse with hot water
Run hot water for 30–60 seconds to flush away loosened debris.
Freshen it up with ice and citrus
Add ice cubes and a few lemon or orange peels, then turn the disposal on for a few seconds. This sharpens the blades and leaves a clean scent.

Maintenance Tips to Keep It Clean

Run cold water while grinding food to help solidify grease so it can be chopped up.
Avoid putting fibrous foods and grease or oil down the disposal.
Clean the disposal once every 1–2 weeks to prevent buildup.