How to Clean Your Garbage Disposal: 2025 Step-by-Step

Essential Tools and Supplies for Cleaning a Garbage Disposal

Knowing how to clean a garbage disposal involves a few necessary tools and supplies. You also need to ensure your safety with the right protective gear and cleaning solutions. Let's have a look at what you need:

• Sturdy scrub brush or an old toothbrush.
• Sponge or a cloth.
• Protective gloves.
• Safe garbage disposal cleaner such as Affresh garbage disposal cleaner.

How to Clean a Smelly Garbage Disposal: Step-by-Step Instructions

Regularly cleaning your garbage disposal ensures its proper function and longevity. Here's how to clean a smelly garbage disposal effectively:

Step 1: Safety Measures

Follow these steps to safely prepare for garbage disposal cleaning:

• Turn off and unplug the garbage disposal unit.
• Avoid putting your hands or objects in the disposal. Use tongs or pliers instead.
• Wear protective gloves to safeguard your hands.

Step 2: Clean the Splash Guard

The rubber splash guard tends to collect lots of food residue and grease deposits. Clean it thoroughly with an old toothbrush or scrubbing brush and dish detergent. Don’t neglect to scrub the underside of the splash guard, to remove any grease, debris or slime. Wipe the splash guard down with a cloth or sponge.

Step 3: Clean the Garbage Disposal

Restore electrical power to the garbage disposal and follow the steps shown in this YouTube video to clean the garbage disposal using Affresh cleaner:

Use Affresh garbage disposal cleaner monthly to keep your kitchen sink smelling fresh and the garbage disposal working efficiently.

Tips to Help Keep Your Garbage Disposal from Smelling

Follow these usage tips to help keep your garbage disposal from smelling:

• Avoid disposing of fat, grease, and oil through the garbage disposal. These items can clog the disposal and sink – leading to smells.
• Only use your garbage disposal to grind organic food waste. Avoid grinding disposing of fibrous vegetables and starchy foods, which can clog the appliance. Don’t put bones or coffee grounds through the disposal as they can cause blockages.
• Run water when using the disposal to help prevent clogs and odors.
• Don’t pour boiling water down the disposal.
• Avoid putting large amounts of food waste down the disposal at once to prevent clogs and residue buildup.

Run your garbage disposal daily to prevent smells, rust and corrosion. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach to clean the disposal, which can damage the unit and cause smells. Instead, use the Affresh garbage disposal cleaner recommended above.

Trust Sears Home Services for reliable advice for your kitchen and home appliances. With our recommended products and DIY solutions, you can learn how to keep all of your appliances in top shape and working smoothly. Rely on us for all of your household needs.