Your garbage disposal is a handy appliance for you to have, as it grinds up food for easy disposal and prevents your pipes from clogging. However, for it to function correctly, you must care for it, as this keeps unpleasant odors and residue at bay. One way you can care for your garbage disposal is to clean it thoroughly. If you are unsure how to properly clean your garbage disposal, follow the below steps.

Gather Essential Materials

Before you begin cleaning your garbage disposal, gather the necessary materials. You will need white vinegar, baking soda, dish soap, ice cubes, and citrus peels (like lemon or orange) for a natural and effective cleaning solution.

Steps for Cleaning

Start by turning off the power to the garbage disposal, as this will ensure that you are safe. Next, pour a cup of ice cubes down the disposal to help dislodge any debris stuck to the blades. Follow this with a handful of citrus peels to provide freshness. Once you have put the ice and the peels down into the garbage disposal, turn on the power again. Then, let it run until you grind everything.

Using Natural Cleaning Solutions

To deep clean and deodorize your garbage disposal, create a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the disposal, and then follow that by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and work its magic for 30 minutes before rinsing with hot water.

Scrubbing Away Residue

For stubborn residue, use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the inside of the disposal. Be sure to reach all areas, including the rubber splash guard and the underside of the rubber flaps.

Maintain It Regularly

Once you thoroughly clean your garbage disposal, you must maintain it regularly. Once a week, run citrus peels through it to maintain freshness. You can also freeze vinegar into ice cubes and grind them up to keep the blades clean and sharp. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels or celery, down the disposal to prevent clogs. You should also schedule annual garbage disposal maintenance, which will involve a professional plumber cleaning and inspecting the unit thoroughly.

For help maintaining your garbage disposal, call on the Plumbing Doctor, LLC. When working with the Plumbing Doctor, LLC, you will receive nothing short of excellent service. The goal is to keep your plumbing in top shape and make your home a safe place. We believe in fair pricing for even the most complicated jobs, and your customer satisfaction is our priority.