How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal and Prevent Odors
Your garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen — but it’s also one of the most neglected. Without proper care, it can become clogged, dull, or smelly. Here’s how to keep it clean, efficient, and odor-free all year long.
1. Use It Correctly
Avoid dumping everything down the drain. Stick to soft foods and small scraps. Avoid:
- Grease and oils (they solidify and clog pipes)
- Fibrous foods like celery or corn husks
- Coffee grounds, eggshells, and bones
These items can damage blades, jam the motor, or create blockages.
2. Run Cold Water
Always run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal. Cold water helps solidify grease, allowing the blades to chop it up before it can coat your pipes.
3. Clean It Naturally
To fight odors, grind up small citrus peels like lemon or orange. You can also use a mix of baking soda and vinegar — let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. This removes buildup and deodorizes naturally.
4. Sharpen the Blades
Drop a handful of ice cubes into the disposal and run it for 30 seconds. The ice helps sharpen blades and remove stuck-on residue.
5. Perform Routine Maintenance
Every few weeks, inspect your disposal for unusual noises or slow draining. If it jams, never reach inside — use a hex wrench underneath the unit to manually free the blades.
When to Call a Professional
If your garbage disposal is making grinding noises, leaking, or not turning on, it may need repair or replacement. A professional plumber can diagnose electrical issues, replace worn seals, and ensure safe operation.
Trust Putman & Son’s Plumbing
At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we’ve been helping Michigan homeowners keep their kitchens running smoothly for over 35 years. From disposal repairs to full kitchen plumbing services, we’re here to help — quickly and professionally.
248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com
