How to Clean a Garbage Disposal

Fri Mar 28 2025

Appliances

Ever had that moment when you walk into your kitchen, and something smells... off? You check the fridge or the trash can, and then it hits you: the garbage disposal. Yep, that sneaky little drain gobbles up food scraps all day but rarely gets the TLC it deserves.

Luckily, cleaning your garbage disposal is easier than you think. No fancy gadgets required—just a few pantry staples, five minutes, and maybe a deep breath. Let’s break it down step by step!

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The Quick & Easy Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposal not working? Here are some quick ways to clean it:

1. Start with a Rinse

Before you deep clean, give your disposal a good flush. Turn on the hot water and let it run for about 30 seconds to loosen up any gunk. This helps wash away small debris and preps the disposal for a deeper clean.

2. The Classic Baking Soda & Vinegar Trick

This old-school method works like magic:

Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal.
Follow with one cup of vinegar (cue the fizzy science experiment).
Let it bubble for five to ten minutes. This not only helps break down grime but also neutralizes odors.
Rinse with hot water while running the disposal.

3. Ice Cube Scrub with Baking Soda

This method pulls double duty—cleaning and sharpening the blades:

Toss a handful of ice cubes into the disposal.
Sprinkle in two tablespoons of baking soda.
Run the disposal while holding down the ice cubes with cold water. The ice scrapes away stubborn residue while the baking soda absorbs odors.

4. Lemon or Citrus Peel Boost

Want to leave your kitchen smelling fresh? Toss a few lemon, lime, or orange peels into the disposal and run it with cold water. The natural oils help deodorize and freshen up the drain.

5. Scrub the Rubber Flaps

This is where things get gross—but trust us, it’s worth it:

Grab an old toothbrush or scrub brush.
Lift the rubber splash guard (that ring inside the drain) and scrub underneath.
This area collects grime, grease, and food particles that contribute to that funky smell.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal?

Keeping your disposal clean is key, but what shouldn't go down a garbage disposal? Avoid grease, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous foods like celery and potato peels—they can cause buildup and blockages.

Here are some more tips on keeping your food disposal clean:

✅ Quick rinse: Every time you use it

✅ Deep clean (baking soda + vinegar): Once a week

✅ Ice cube scrub: Once a month

✅ Rubber splash guard scrub: Every few weeks (or when it starts smelling weird)

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The Best Garbage Disposals at Cullen’s

If your garbage disposal isn't working, Cullen’s Home Center has high-quality, reliable models to keep your kitchen running smoothly. Consider these options:

KitchenAid 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal

4-Stage MultiGrind® Technology prevents clogs and rinses residue for smoother operation.
Quietest SoundSeal® Technology reduces noise and vibrations for quieter performance.
Continuous Feed System allows constant grinding for quick cleanup.
Dura-Drive Motor delivers powerful torque for tough food scraps.
Lift and Latch™ Technology simplifies installation, making setup easy.

GE Appliances DISPOSALL® 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposer

1 HP Motor with 2,800+ RPM finely grinds tough foods like meat and small bones.
Stainless Steel Grinding Components stay sharp longer and resist rust.
Large 32-ounce grind chamber allows for more food waste at once, perfect for families.
Drain Boost Technology helps prevent clogs by forcefully draining food waste.
Septic Safe design works with properly maintained septic systems.

Frigidaire 1.25 HP Corded Disposer

Torque Master® Grinding System powers through food scraps with high-speed torque.
BioShield® Antimicrobial Protection helps prevent odors and bacteria buildup.
Quietest High-Powered Performance with a fully insulated sound shell.
Easy to Install with a 3-bolt sink mount flange and removable splash guard for easy cleaning.
Stainless Steel Grinding System features stainless steel swivel impellers and cutting components for powerful performance.

Keep Your Kitchen Running Smoothly with Cullen’s

A clean garbage disposal makes all the difference in keeping your kitchen fresh and functional. If yours is making weird noises or struggling to grind food properly, it might be time for an upgrade.

Cullen’s Home Center is here to help! Contact us or visit Cullen's Home Center in Alexandria, MN, to explore our garbage disposals for sale. Let us help you create a more functional kitchen right here in Lake Country, Minnesota!

With our price guarantee, you can rest assured you’re getting the best value for your investment. Our store isn't just about kitchen cleanup; we’re your one-stop destination for appliances, furniture, electronics, and mattresses.

FAQs About Cleaning Your Garbage Disposal

1. How do you deep clean a garbage disposal?

A deep clean involves using baking soda and vinegar, followed by an ice cube scrub to break down grime and eliminate odors.

2. How do I get rid of black gunk inside a garbage disposal?

That’s buildup from grease, food particles, and soap scum. Scrubbing the rubber splash guard and using baking soda + vinegar helps break it down.

3. How do I remove bad smells from my garbage disposal?

Try running citrus peels through it, along with a splash of vinegar or baking soda. For stubborn odors, scrub under the splash guard.

4. What clears a clogged garbage disposal?

First, turn off the power. Then, try manually removing debris with tongs. If that doesn’t work, use a plunger or an Allen wrench (most disposals have a built-in hex slot for unclogging).

5. How do I get rid of bacteria in my garbage disposal?

To kill bacteria, pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it fizz for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water. Regularly scrubbing the rubber splash guard also helps prevent bacterial buildup.