How To Make Your Garbage Disposal Smell Better

Are you tired of bad smells coming from your garbage disposal? You're not the only one! Garbage disposals are a handy kitchen appliance that makes cleaning up after meals easier and more convenient. However, over time, the disposal can start to emit a foul odor, making it an unpleasant experience to use. Many homeowners face this problem, but it's not difficult to fix. In this article, we'll show you how to make your garbage disposal smell better with some easy tips and tricks.

The first step is to clean your garbage disposal thoroughly. Turn off the power to the unit, then inspect the inside with a flashlight for any large chunks of food or debris that may have gotten stuck. Use tongs or pliers to remove any debris you find. Next, fill your sink with hot, soapy water and add a cup of white vinegar. Turn on the disposal and let the water and vinegar run through the unit.

Clean Your Garbage Disposal

The first step in making your garbage disposal smell better is to clean it thoroughly. Here's how to do it:

• Turn off the power to the unit and use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the disposal for any large chunks of food or debris that may have gotten stuck.
• Use tongs or pliers to remove any debris you find.
• Next, fill your sink with hot, soapy water and add a cup of white vinegar.
• Turn on the disposal and let the water and vinegar run through the unit.
• This will help to sanitize the disposal and remove any lingering odors.

Use Citrus Fruits

One of the easiest ways to make your garbage disposal smell better is to use citrus fruits. Here's how to do it:

• Cut a lemon or lime into small pieces, drop them into the disposal, and turn it on.
• The acidic properties of the fruit will help to break down any food particles or debris that may be causing the odor.
• You can also use orange or grapefruit peels, which will release their natural oils as they are ground up, leaving a fresh scent behind.

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are two common household items that can be used to clean and deodorize your garbage disposal. Here's how to do it:

• Sprinkle a quarter cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a half cup of vinegar.
• Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then run hot water through the unit to rinse away the mixture and any debris that may have been dislodged.

Use Ice and Salt

Ice and salt are another effective combination for cleaning and deodorizing your garbage disposal. Here's how to do it:

• Fill an ice cube tray with vinegar or lemon juice, then freeze the cubes.
• Once frozen, put several ice cubes down the disposal along with a handful of coarse salt.
• Turn on the unit and let the ice and salt grind away any built-up debris, while the vinegar or lemon juice helps to deodorize the unit.

Prevent Smells by Avoid Putting Certain Foods Down the Disposal

Finally, one of the easiest ways to prevent your garbage disposal from smelling in the first place is to avoid putting certain foods down the unit. The only reason why a garbage disposal smells is that there is decomposing food stuck somewhere inside and is starting to rot. Some foods tend to stick more than others - here's a list of foods that you should avoid putting in the disposal:

• Eggshells
• Coffee grounds
• Fibrous vegetables like celery
• Bones
• Fruit pits
• Starchy foods like potatoes and pasta

Best Garbage Disposal CLeaners To Eliminate Odors

If you can’t remove the smell with products on hand then it’s probably best to check out these products that can help remove the smell from a garbage disposal. Here are some of the most popular options, along with their benefits and drawbacks:

Glisten Disposer Care Foaming Cleaner

This is a popular product that comes in a single-use packet. It is a foaming cleaner that cleans and deodorizes the garbage disposal. The foaming action reaches all parts of the disposal to ensure a thorough clean. It is easy to use, and the results are almost immediate.

Plink Garbage Disposal Cleaner and Deodorizer

This is another popular option that comes in a pack of 20 tablets. The tablets are designed to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal. They are easy to use and can be used weekly to keep the disposal smelling fresh.

Affresh Garbage Disposal Cleaner (Most Popular)

This product comes in a package of 3 tablets. It is designed to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal, and it is safe for septic systems. The tablets are easy to use and dissolve quickly.

Grab Green Garbage Disposal Freshener and Cleaner Pods

This is an all-natural option that is made with plant-based ingredients. It is designed to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal without harsh chemicals. The product is safe for septic systems and can be used weekly.

CLR Garbage Disposal Foaming Cleaner

This product is designed to clean and deodorize the garbage disposal. It comes in a foaming formula that reaches all parts of the disposal for a thorough clean. The product is safe for septic systems and can be used weekly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my garbage disposal?

A: No, bleach is not recommended for use in garbage disposals, as it can damage the unit and release harmful gases.

Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?

A: It's recommended to clean your garbage disposal at least once a week to keep it in good working order and prevent odors from building up.

Q: Is it safe to put ice down my garbage disposal?

A: Yes, ice is safe to put down your garbage disposal, and can help to keep the unit clean and free from odors.

Q: Can I use essential oils to deodorize my garbage disposal?

A: Yes, essential oils can be effective for deodorizing your garbage disposal. Simply add a few drops to the unit and run it with hot water.

Q: How often should I use a garbage disposal cleaner?

A: It is recommended to use a garbage disposal cleaner once a week to keep the disposal clean and odor-free.

Q: Are garbage disposal cleaners safe for septic systems?

A: Some garbage disposal cleaners are safe for septic systems, but it is important to check the label before use.

Q: Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean my garbage disposal?

A: Yes, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can be used to clean a garbage disposal. Simply pour half a cup of baking soda down the disposal, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.

Q: How can I prevent my garbage disposal from smelling in the first place?

A: To prevent your garbage disposal from smelling, it is important to use it regularly, run cold water while using it, and avoid putting certain foods down the disposal, such as grease, oil, and fibrous vegetables.