Here’s how to clean a smelly garbage disposal.

Scrub thoroughly under the rubber disposal baffle and around the drain rinsing the sponge frequently to remove the gunk.

Repeat until the sponge pulls up no more gunk and the disposal’s surfaces feel clean.

Illustration showing how to clean a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Paige McLaughlin

If you have a double sink, add the same amounts to both drains.

This method is best saved for when your garbage disposal needs a deep cleaning.

Cover the Drain

Place the sink stopper over the drain opening to contain the fizzing mixture.

materials to clean a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

If you have a double sink, cover both drain openings.

Wait at least 10 minutes to give the cleaners time to work.

The ice helps to scrape the inside of the grinding chamber, dislodging any buildup.

person turning off the power switch to the garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

Add Salt or Vinegar

Pour one cup of rock salt or vinegar into the disposal.

How to Freshen and Deodorize a Garbage Disposal

Freshen and deodorize a disposal with this method.

Never use undiluted bleach because it can damage disposal components.

person inserting a soapy sponge into the garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

Weekly cleaning can keep the garbage disposal clean and free of smells.

Use an abrasive sponge and dishwashing liquid to scrub the inside of the disposal chamber and under the baffle.

Combine baking soda and vinegar and flush the disposal well to finish the process.

person scrubbing the inside of a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

Simply use household products and a bit of scrubbing to clean the inside chamber and outer components.

Baking soda and vinegar will help loosen minor clogs that cause a slow-draining disposal.

However, they will notdissolve large clogscaused by bones or excessive waste in the disposal.

person pouring baking soda down the garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

Unclogging will require manual removal of blockages from the grinding teeth or drain line.

person covering the drain with a stopper

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

flushing the garbage disposal with water

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

adding ice to a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

pouring vinegar down a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

flushing the garbage disposal with water

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson

pouring citrus peels down a garbage disposal

The Spruce / Lacey Johnson