3 Methods to Clean and Deodorize Your Garbage Disposal

3 ways to clean your Garbage Disposal

APPLIANCE MAINTENANCE

2/27/20244 min read

Introduction

A garbage disposal is a convenient appliance in your kitchen that helps to dispose of food waste efficiently. Over time it can build up residue inside as well as on the sides below the plastic flange, and underneath of the plastic slotted flange. Cleaning and maintenance is needed of the garbage disposal is needed to keep it running and not stopped up. In this article I will review three effective ways to help clean and deodorize your garbage disposal. However, over time, it can accumulate residue, develop unpleasant odors, and even become clogged.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

One of the most popular, well known and effective methods to clean your garbage disposal is by using a combination of baking soda and vinegar. This natural and solution usually involves two products that most people have in their home. These two can help remove any build up in the disposal and thus eliminate odors.

Here's how:

Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain of your garbage disposal.
Next pour a cup of vinegar into the disposal.
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 - 10 minutes. You may notice some bubbling and fizzing, which is normal.
After the time has passed, run some hot water first then switch and run cold water and turn on the garbage disposal to flush away the mixture.

This method helps to break down any food particles and grease that may have accumulated in the disposal, leaving it clean and fresh. While you are waiting for the baking soda and vinegar mix to take effect you can use this time to take out the plastic slotted flange and clean this with the vinegar or a safe household cleaner. Make sure to clean the underneath side of the flange, this will generally be the dirtiest portion in my experience. You can also clean the sides of the sink beneath the flange carefully with the disposal off.

2. Ice Method

Another effective method to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal is by using a bowl of ice to pour into the garbage disposal. This will help remove any debris and grime inside the disposal and also may help sharpen the garbage disposal blades as well in the process.

Follow the steps below:

Fill a large mixing bowl or salad bowl with ice cubes
Fill up the garbage disposal with ice cubes, can start with a few handfuls.
Optional (Sprinkle a generous amount of salt into the disposal.)
Turn on the cold water and run the garbage disposal for a few seconds.

The ice helps to dislodge any stuck-on food particles, while the salt acts as an abrasive to clean the disposal blades. This method cleans but also helps to keep your garbage disposal in good working condition. Make sure to use cold water here. This method may be a little controversial with some saying that leaks in the garbage disposal may be caused. It seems the repeated use of hot water with the garbage disposal may threaten the disposal seal more than anything else.

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3. Disposal Cleaner / Citrus Peels

If you're looking for a natural and refreshing way to clean and deodorize your garbage disposal, citrus peels are an excellent option. The natural oils in citrus fruits help to eliminate odors and leave a fresh scent behind. An alternative if you wish to buy a disposal cleaner from amazon is Active Disposal Cleaner.

Here's what you need to do:

Take a few citrus peels, such as lemon, lime, or orange.
Cut the peels into small pieces.
Turn on the cold water and run the garbage disposal.
Drop the citrus peels into the disposal one at a time.
If using Active Disposal Cleaner run water at pencil width at far end of sink
Place Disposal Cleaner tablet into disposal and turn on disposal (it will start to foam)
After foaming has stopped run water to clear out both sides of sink.

As the garbage disposal grinds the citrus peels, the oils are released, effectively deodorizing your sink and leaving a pleasant citrus scent. Click the link Here for the Active Garbage Disposal Cleaner (Amazon Affiliate link- I receive s small commission for purchases made through this link at no cost to buyer.)

Conclusion