How To Clean and Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

If you don't know how to clean garbage disposals, you're missing out on a way to help your device last longer. 



As the experts in garbage disposal services in Wickliffe, Ohio, Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. can give you useful tips and provide reliable annual maintenance. From Pete's Pond Reserve to the shores of Lake Erie, we help our friends and neighbors enjoy access to clean indoor water and modern plumbing conveniences. Take a look at how to clean your garbage disposal below.

Time-Tested Tips for Cleaning a Wickliffe Disposal

Cleaning your garbage disposal is important for odor elimination and extending the unit’s life expectancy. While the process is straightforward, you can perfect it with the following tips:

Establish the Right Schedule and Frequency

First, determine how often you need light and deep cleaning routines. Whether you need a basic cleaning every two to four weeks depends on how frequently you use the device.

Include a deep cleaning with your annual maintenance appointment. Change the frequency to every six months if you use the garbage disposal daily.

Don't Put Your Safety at Risk

The term "garbage disposal blades" is somewhat misleading because the device actually uses impellers to expel food from the chamber. These aren't necessarily sharp, but anything spinning at high speed can damage your limbs or digits. 

Always prioritize your safety when you clean the garbage disposal. Unplug your device before you start scrubbing in case you mistakenly put your hand into it. Unplugging it first increases safety and reduces the likelihood of a jam or broken cleaning tool.

Choose the Cleaning Solution That Works for You

You can find various suggestions for how to clean garbage disposals. Not all are effective for every model or kitchen. Use some trial and error to determine which of the following is right for your Wickliffe home:

• Baking soda and vinegar: Pour a half-cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the disposal after your initial rinse. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse it again.
• Ice cubes and rock salt: The ice cube cleaning method uses two cups of ice cubes and one cup of kosher salt to help with food waste removal. Rinse it with cold water as you run the device.
• Soap and scrubber: Remember to stay safe by shutting off the device when you use this method. A standard dish soap and cold water should remove the majority of grease and food particles.

Some homeowners combine various methods for optimal garbage disposal cleaning.

Consider Freshening Between Cleanings

Lastly, consider keeping your garbage disposal smelling fresh. This process can extend the unit’s life expectancy, improve household hygiene, and prevent early garbage disposal replacement. 

Cut an orange, lemon, or other citrus fruit into quarters about once a week. Stick it in your garbage disposal, run the device, and then rinse it with cold water. The sink will smell great, and the garbage disposal will shine.

Best Practices for Keeping Your Sink Disposal in Excellent Condition

Understanding how to clean garbage disposals is only one factor that helps your garbage disposal last longer. The device should last more than a decade if you use the following best practices:

Prioritize Professional Maintenance Annually

You can include your garbage disposal in your plumbing system's annual maintenance appointment. Preventing problems will always cost less than repairing them. A certified professional can find issues and fine-tune the device to reduce wear and tear.

Stay Vigilant About What You Use It For

Many Wickliffe homeowners don't realize that certain types of food waste can harm their garbage disposal. Avoid grinding the following materials:

• Rice, potatoes, and other starchy products stick to the chamber and cause clogs.
• Grease and oils can reduce the impellers’ grinding ability after coating them and solidifying.
• Eggshells often tangle in the blades and cause damage.

Additionally, bones, fruit pits, and other hard substances can damage the impellers.

Always Use Cold Water During Operation

You may assume that hot water is the better choice if you're thinking about cleaning. Hot water might more easily dislodge food in the garbage disposal, but it might also cause the motor to overheat! Use cold water the entire time you run your disposal.

Schedule Maintenance or Repairs for Your Wickliffe Garbage Disposal Today

That’s how to clean garbage disposals. 

You can also rely on Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. to keep the unit in peak condition because we know all the causes of garbage disposal leaks and how to promptly repair them. Wickliffe property owners trust us with the plumbing in their kitchens, bathrooms, and more. Contact us today!