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How to Get Rid of Smell in Garbage Disposal: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate garbage disposal odors easily with this step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes cleaning simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Garbage Disposal

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Citrus fruit (lemon, lime, or orange)
- Boiling water

Rinse and Inspect

Run boiling water down the disposal to loosen any stuck food.
Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate buildup or blockage.

Eliminate Odors with Natural Cleaners

Pour about a cup of baking soda into the disposal followed by a cup of white vinegar.
Allow the fizzy mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to break down odor-causing residues.
Flush with boiling water to clear away the loosened grime.

Refresh with Citrus

Cut a lemon, lime, or orange into small chunks.
Run these citrus pieces through the disposal to leave behind a natural, fresh scent and help clean the blades.

Final Rinse

Turn on cold water and run the disposal for about 30 seconds to wash out any lingering debris.

Safety Precautions

Always disconnect power to the garbage disposal before placing your hands inside or performing any deep cleaning. Unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker.
Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners, as they can damage the disposal and pipes, and release harmful fumes.
Use tongs or pliers to remove any visible debris—never use your bare hands inside the disposal, even if it’s off.
Allow boiling water to cool slightly before pouring to avoid splashing and burns.
Run water while operating the disposal to prevent overheating and ensure debris is flushed away.
Do not overload the disposal with citrus or other materials at once; feed small pieces gradually.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Garbage Disposal: Extra Tips

Use Natural Cleaners Regularly

Pour half a cup of baking soda down your garbage disposal followed by one cup of white vinegar.
Let the mixture fizz for 10-15 minutes to break down buildup and neutralize odors.
Flush with a couple of minutes of boiling water for a thorough rinse.

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Scrub with Ice and Salt

Drop a handful of ice cubes mixed with coarse salt (or rock salt) into the disposal.
Run cold water and turn on the disposal for 15-20 seconds to clean the blades.
This method helps eliminate food residue that contributes to foul smells.

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Clean Using Citrus Peels

Place small pieces of lemon, lime, or orange peels into the disposal.
Run the disposal with cold water to allow the citrus oils to freshen the unit.
The natural acidity and pleasant scent of citrus also help break down grease.

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Maintain the Splash Guard

Remove the rubber splash guard if possible and wash it separately with dish soap and warm water.
Scrub the underside to remove trapped debris and buildup.
Keep the guard clean to prevent odors from developing and to ensure its longevity.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Garbage Disposal

Ignoring Declutter

Clear surfaces before starting. Removing clutter means you can clean more thoroughly.
A tidy space makes it easier to spot accumulated dust and grime.

Using Wrong Cleaning Tools

Not all cleaning surfaces are the same. Use microfiber cloths for dusting and specific brushes for grout.
Choosing improper tools can lead to extra work, or worse, damage surfaces.

Rushing the Process

Speed often means missing detail. Take your time to address every nook and cranny.
Speedy cleaning may leave behind spots or build up, meaning you have to clean again soon.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Garbage Disposal

When to Clean the Garbage Disposal

Weekly Cleaning: Aim for a once-a-week cleaning. This frequency is ideal because it stops food debris and grease from accumulating and decomposing, which are the main culprits behind foul odors.
Heavy Use Consideration: If you rely heavily on your disposal, consider adding an extra cleaning mid-week. High usage means more food particles build up quickly, so this extra step can prevent odors from setting in.
Prevention Over Cure: Regular cleaning on a weekly basis makes maintenance effortless. It's much easier to manage minor buildups before they escalate into deep-seated smells that require more intensive cleaning later on.
Consistent Routine: Routine upkeep helps you catch any unusual issues before they become major problems—keeping your disposal in check and your kitchen smelling fresh.

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