DIY Tips To Clean A Garbage Disposal

From leftover food to accidental spills, your garbage disposal beneath a kitchen sink tackles it all on a daily basis. It is an unsung hero that keeps your kitchen clean, fresh, and clog free. Unfortunately, homeowners often overlook garbage disposal during routine cleaning, which can lead to unpleasant odours, clogged drains, and expensive plumbing issues.

Small food particles and gunk can get trapped on the blades or the rubber splash guard, which may block water flow, leading to residue buildup and lingering smells. This may even cause mould and germ infestation if not treated properly. Fret not! Read on for DIY tips and tricks to clean and deodorise a garbage disposal like a pro.

The best part is that all the methods or hacks shared below are easy to follow and can help you achieve the desired results. Many end of lease cleaning Melbourne experts follow these tips to refresh garbage disposal and drains effectively and efficiently.

1. How to Clean the Visible Part of a Garbage Disposal

Do you know the key hotspot for food residue and lethal germs on a garbage disposal? Yes, it is the area where the disposal rim meets the sink basin. This particular visible spot is also prone to mould and mildew growth. So, itis best to clean it thoroughly.

Spray a white vinegar and soap solution, then scrub with an abrasive pad to achieve spotless results. Make sure you gently rinse with warm water and repeat the process if required.

2. Ice Cubes and Cold Water to Unclog a Drain

This is another unconventional yet effective DIY method to clean your garbage disposal. Put 12 to 15 ice cubes into the disposal, turn it on and run some cold water down the drain. This will smoothly grind the cubes and clean the blades.

Ice can do wonders in dislodging trapped debris and loosening up stuck food particles. On the other hand, the cold water flushes the gunk down the drain. Isn’t it amazing!

Tip: It is recommended to properly throw food waste and residue in the dustbin and recycle household waste to prevent greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Ice Cubes +Coarse Salt for Effective Results

If you want to increase the cleaning power without using any chemical cleaner, try this simple yet effective method. Add a cup of coarse or rock salt, then run the ice cubes down the drain. Turn it on and pour cold water to grind the cubes. The coarse salt can break down the gunk, food buildup and even grease with ease. If this method doesn’t work, try out the other tricks shared below.

4. White Vinegar and Citrus Cleaning Method

Do you know how professional end of lease cleaning Melbourne experts combat a smelly garbage disposal? Instead of using store bought garbage disposal cleaners and deodorisers, use the power of citrus fruit. Add lime, grapefruit, or orange peel to the garbage disposal to freshen the unit. Make sure you cut the peels into small pieces, then add a cup of white vinegar to effectively banish stains and grime. Also remove the limescale from faucets and sink using white vinegar.

Tip: Don’t forget to run cold water while the peel grinds to prevent further blockage.

5. DIY Best Method: Baking Soda and White Vinegar Duo

This is one of the best hacks for unclogging and disinfecting a garbage disposal without chemicals. Here is a step by step guide:

• Add half a cup of baking soda down the garbage disposal. This will break down grease, gunk and food residue. Baking soda can help you degrease kitchen cabinets too.
• Pour a cup of white vinegar. This will produce a fizz but will also help you dislodge any remaining gunk and grime.
• Pour hot water down the drain.
• Next, drain cold water and salt to help flush the stuck gunk.

This method will help banish bad smells effectively.

6. Borax: A DIY Cleaning Agent

Borax is a natural laundry cleaner used in many household cleaning products. To clean your garbage disposal, sprinkle at least two tablespoons of Borax down the drain and run cold water after 30 minutes. You don’t need any toxic chemical to dislodge grime and gunk.

Make sure you leave no stone unturned to refresh your kitchen appliances and other units using eco friendly products for spotless outcomes.

7. Hot Water and Dish Soap

Another great method for cleaning a garbage disposal is hot water and mild dishwashing liquid. Ensure you plug the drain with a sink stopper, add a few tablespoons of detergent to the sink, and run hot water into the unit until it’s halfway full.

Release the sink stopper and turn on the unit to allow all the water and gunk in the sink to drain into the unit when it is still running. Soapy water easily cleans the upper portions, delivering exceptional results.

8. Does the Garbage Disposal include a standard bond cleaning checklist?

Yes, if the rental property has a garbage disposal unit installed, professionals include the unit when conducting a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Melbourne. It is cleaned and deodorised as part of the kitchen sink. They also clean and polish sinks, taps and other kitchen surfaces to help you pass your rental inspection without any last minute chaos. Make sure you choose the best company for a quality service and transparent pricing policy for your peace of mind.

Infographic: How To Naturally Clean Garbage Disposal

Wrapping Up

Cleaning and unclogging the garbage disposal is an essential task to keep your kitchen clean, disinfected and fresh smelling. You can consider these simple cleaning tips to dislodge stuck gunk, food buildup, and grease from the unit using all natural cleaning products. Happy Cleaning!