5 effective steps to get rid of garbage disposal smell
To keep your kitchen clean is super important for a healthy home, and that means not forgetting about your garbage disposal. It’s great tool at handling leftovers, but if you don’t clean it regularly, it can start to stink. Old food and grime can make your whole kitchen less welcoming.
In this article, I’ll take you through five simple steps to clean your garbage disposal and get rid of bad smells from your kitchen. You just need a few household items to start. Ready to freshen up your kitchen? Let’s dive in.
Why Does Your Garbage Disposal Stink Anyway?
If you’ve ever noticed a bad smell coming from your garbage disposal, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue in many kitchens. The main culprits behind these unpleasant odors are usually trapped food particles and bacteria buildup. Here’s a closer look at why this happens:
- Trapped Food Particles: Every time you wash dishes or dump leftovers down the disposal, small pieces of food can get stuck in the blades. Over time, these tiny food pieces begin to decompose, which can lead to a pretty nasty smell.
- Size Matters: The size and power of your garbage disposal can play a big role in this. Smaller, less powerful, 1/3 horsepower disposals might save you money upfront but can get clogged more easily and struggle with tougher kitchen waste. On the other hand, 3/4 horsepower garbage disposer grinds food more finely and handles larger loads better, which helps prevent clogs and related smells.
- Bacteria Buildup: Kitchens are naturally a breeding ground for bacteria due to the moisture and organic material. Warm, moist environments like your garbage disposal are perfect for bacteria to grow. As these bacteria break down the food residues, they release foul-smelling gases.
- Lack of Cleaning: Regular cleaning is often overlooked when it comes to garbage disposals. Without routine maintenance, the combination of old food and bacteria can become overwhelming, and the smell can spread to other parts of your kitchen.
- Oils and Fats: Pouring oils and fats down the disposal is another no-no. They might go down as liquids, but they solidify as they cool, clinging to the sides of your disposal and pipes. This not only causes clogs but also contributes to unpleasant smells as these fats go rancid.
How to Clean a Garbage Disposal in 5 Steps
Cleaning your garbage disposal is straightforward and can significantly freshen up your kitchen. Here’s how you can do it in five simple steps:
1. Clean the Rubber Splash Guard
Start by turning off the power to your disposal at the circuit breaker to ensure safety. The rubber splash guard on top of the disposal tends to hold onto food particles and debris. Lift the flaps and use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, dipped in soapy water to scrub underneath each flap. Make sure to rinse the splash guard well with water once you’re done scrubbing.
2. Wash Disposer with Hot, Soapy Water
With the power still off, fill the disposal with a mixture of hot water and dish soap. Let this sit for a few minutes to loosen any accumulated grime. Afterwards, turn on the water and briefly run the disposal to flush out the soapy mixture, helping to clean the interior surfaces.
3. Grind Ice Cubes and Rock Salt
To clean the grinding elements and sharpen the blades, fill the disposal with two cups of ice cubes followed by a cup of rock salt. Turn on the disposal to grind the ice and salt together. This process not only helps in removing the stuck-on debris but also sharpens the disposal’s blades.
4. Scour with Vinegar and Baking Soda
For a deeper clean and to deodorize, pour half a cup of baking soda directly into the disposal followed by a cup of white vinegar. The resulting fizzing action helps break down tough grime and neutralizes unpleasant odors. Let the mixture sit and work its magic for about ten minutes before flushing it down with hot water while running the disposal.
5. Freshen with Lemon Power
As a final step, freshen up your disposal by using lemon. Cut a lemon into quarters, ensuring the pieces are small enough to be safely ground by your disposal. With the disposal and water running, feed the lemon pieces into the unit. This not only helps clean your disposal further but also leaves a fresh, clean citrus scent in your kitchen.
Further Reading: How To Fix Loose Garbage Disposal Blades
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Keeping your garbage disposal fresh and free of odors is easier than you might expect. By following a few simple routines, you can keep your disposal working smoothly and prevent nasty smells. Here is a infographic including four basic tips for regular cleaning and maintenance:
When to Call the Professionals
While regular maintenance can prevent many disposal problems, there are times when professional help is needed. Be aware of these signs:
- Persistent odors: If odors persist despite thorough cleaning, it may indicate a deeper issue.
- Strange noises: Grinding, humming, or other unusual sounds can signal a jam or malfunction.
- Poor performance: If the disposal struggles to grind or doesn’t turn on, it may need professional attention.
- Leaks: Water pooling under the sink or around the disposal is a clear sign that repairs are necessary.
Further Reading: Who Installs A Garbage Disposal, Plumber, Or Electrician?
Conclusion
Regular cleaning of your garbage disposal is key to maintaining a pleasant and hygienic kitchen environment. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can effectively manage odors and ensure that your disposal operates efficiently. Regular maintenance not only prevents unpleasant smells but also extends the life of your disposal, saving you time and potential repair costs in the long run.
I encourage you to make these practices a part of your routine kitchen upkeep. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your space fresh and inviting. Remember, a clean garbage disposal contributes to a clean home, so don’t overlook this important task. Start implementing these tips today and enjoy a fresher, cleaner kitchen every day.
