Easy Ways to Clean Out Your Garbage Disposal

Do you have a stinky or clogged garbage disposal? There are some things that you can do about it. If you have a clean, working garbage disposal in your home, it makes for a great tool to have in your kitchen. However, if it does not work, chances are that you want it to be fixed as quickly as possible. That is why we will offer you some tips to clean out your garbage disposal.

How To: Clear A Clog

You do not want to use your fingers when removing obstructions in your garbage disposal; it is a big safety risk. The black rubbery thing that you push the food through (the rubber gasket) is removable. If you want to see what you are doing more clearly, you should remove that. If it is not removable in your specific garbage disposal, that is all right too. You can remove what is stuck in there by using long needle nose pliers or long kitchen tongs. If you HAVE to use your hands to get in there, make sure that you turn off the breaker first – that way you know that there is zero risk of the disposal starting.

How To: Do Monthly Maintenance

If it is working right, why even think about your garbage disposal? However, if you want to make sure that it is not filled with foul odors or become clogged, you should consider occasional cleaning and maintenance. Our favorite way of doing so is using a tray or two of vinegar ice cubes, putting them in the disposal, and letting the disposal run. This is going to help clear any odor-causing particles that remain and help de-gunk your chopping blades.

How To: Deal With Odors

You might notice a less-than-pleasant odor from your sink disposal. Especially because you might not have let it run enough for all the food to become chopped up and rinsed down. If you want to freshen up your garbage disposal, consider cutting the peels off a citrus fruit (grapefruit, lime, lemon, orange), and put two or three pieces in while you let the hot water run. This is going to help because of the abrasiveness of the rind (to clear the blades) and the freshness of the citrus scent.

Not sure? Call the professionals

If you are not sure how your garbage disposal works or do not want to run the risk, just call the professionals at Dr. Pipe Drain and Plumbing Services. They will be able to offer you quick and courteous services that range from garbage disposal cleaning to entire pipe relining.