A garbage disposal makes kitchen cleanup faster, easier, and less smelly—but only if it’s working the way it should. When neglected, disposals can clog, jam, or give off odors that make you want to avoid the sink altogether.
The good news? Keeping your disposal in top shape doesn’t take much time or effort. A few simple habits can keep it running smoothly for years, saving you from costly repairs or unpleasant surprises. Here are four practical ways to take care of your garbage disposal and keep your kitchen fresh.
1. Use It Regularly
It may sound simple, but one of the best ways to maintain your garbage disposal is to actually use it. Running the disposal at least once a week—even if there isn’t much to grind—keeps the moving parts from seizing up and helps prevent leftover food from drying inside the chamber.
A quick rinse with cold water while the disposal runs for 20 to 30 seconds is enough to keep things moving. This regular use also helps wash away small particles before they stick to the sides and start to smell.
If you go on vacation or don’t use your kitchen often, run a bit of water and flip the switch once you’re back. It’s an easy step that helps avoid stiff parts or rust buildup.
2. Watch What Goes Down the Drain
Your garbage disposal can handle a lot—but it’s not indestructible. One of the fastest ways to wear it down is by putting the wrong things inside.
Avoid sending these items down your disposal:
- Grease, oil, and fat: They harden as they cool, coating your pipes and leading to stubborn clogs.
- Fibrous foods: Items like celery, corn husks, or onion skins can tangle around the parts.
- Bones, shells, or pits: They’re too hard and can dull or damage the impellers.
- Large scraps: Cut them into smaller pieces first, or toss them in the trash instead.
Cold water is your best friend here—it keeps food more brittle so it can be chopped up and flushed away. Hot water, on the other hand, can soften the food and make your garbage disposal mash it up into a big clump, so stick with cold when the disposal is running.
3. Clean It the Right Way
Even if your disposal is working fine, bits of food and residue can build up over time, leading to unpleasant smells. A quick clean once a week will clear out any build-up and keep things flowing.
Here’s an easy method that’s safe for your system:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
- Add one cup of distilled white vinegar. The fizzing action helps loosen grime.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Flush with hot (not boiling!) water to rinse everything clean.
If you want to go a step further, grind up a few ice cubes and a small piece of citrus peel afterward. The ice helps knock loose debris from the parts, while the citrus leaves a fresh scent.
4. Skip the Harsh Chemicals
It’s tempting to reach for a chemical drain cleaner when things start smelling bad or draining slowly—but resist that urge. Most chemical cleaners are too harsh for your disposal. They can corrode the metal parts, damage rubber seals, and release fumes that aren’t good for you or the environment.
Stick to natural cleaning options like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon or orange peels to deodorize and dislodge small blockages. A stiff brush or old toothbrush can also help scrub away gunk around the splash guard or inside the drain opening—just make sure the unit is off and unplugged or turned off before you reach inside. For larger blockages, use an enzyme-based drain cleaner.
When to Call a Professional
Even with regular care, garbage disposals can jam or slow down over time. If it hums but doesn’t grind, drains slowly, or keeps tripping the reset button, it’s best to have your garbage disposal checked by a licensed plumber. Trying to force it loose can cause more damage or injury.
A professional plumber can safely clear jams, repair or replace worn parts, and check for leaks or electrical issues. At Strongbuilt Plumbing, Air, and Electric, we work on all makes and models of disposals and can help you decide whether repair or replacement is the better option.
Keep Your Kitchen Running Smooth
Your garbage disposal is one of those small conveniences that make everyday life easier—until it stops working. By using it regularly, watching what goes down the drain, keeping it clean, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can help it stay in great shape for years to come.
And if it ever starts giving you trouble, the Strongbuilt team is here to help. Our licensed plumbers can inspect your disposal, clear out clogs, or install a new unit if needed.
Call or schedule your appointment online today, and keep your kitchen running strong with a disposal that works like new.