With the holiday season upon us, we’re always looking for ways to spruce up our home before friends and family gather. With the kitchen being one of the largest gathering spots, it’s important that we make sure we’ve cleaned everything we can and there aren’t any odd odors coming from places we didn’t expect. The number one culprit? The garbage disposal.
Not only is important to clean the garbage disposal to keep it in optimal health and efficiency, but it’s also vital that we do so the keep the cleanliness of our kitchen maintained. Here are a few tried and true ways to clean your garbage disposal without clogging your drains or hurting your pipes.
Citrus and Ice
One of the oldest ways to clean a garbage disposal is with two things you likely have on hand already. Grab half a lemon and a handful (6-7 cubes) of ice.
As the ice crunches down, it’ll act as an abrasive tool to help remove build-up on the walls and blades of your unit, and the citrus wedge’s acidity will be the natural air freshener. Be sure to run the water as you do this!
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Another great method again involves two items you likely already have on hand: baking soda and vinegar.
Remember when you were a child and this created a volcano? Little did you know, it was really creating a great cleaning agent, too!
Allow equal parts of the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes in the disposal while it is off, then run hot water down the disposal while turning it on to ensure everything is thoroughly rinsed.
Grab An Old Toothbrush
Sometimes it’s more about what’s on the outside than inside. The splash guard, or plastic piece that sits above your drain, needs to be cleaned frequently as it can easily trap gunk from day to day use.
To do this, ensure your disposal is turned off at the source. Then, grab an old toothbrush and add some dish soap to the bristles. From there, all you need to do is give the under-edge of the disposal’s splash guard a good brush down and you’ll be good to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of water damage in homes?
Common causes of water damage include leaking pipes, burst plumbing lines, clogged gutters,
How can I tell if my home has a hidden water leak?
Signs of a hidden water leak may include unusually high water bills,
Why is it important to know where the main water shut-off valve is located?
Knowing the location of your home’s main water shut-off valve allows you to quickly stop water flow during emergencies like burst pipes or major leaks,
Can clogged gutters cause water damage?
Yes. Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to overflow and collect around your roof, siding, or foundation, potentially leading to leaks,
When should I call a plumber about water damage concerns?
You should contact a plumber if you notice recurring leaks,
