How to Clean and Deodorize a Smelly Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are workhorses that often become victims of their own efficiency. Over time, food particles lodge themselves under the rubber flaps of the splash guard and within the crannies of the grinding chamber, where they begin to decay and create a persistent, sour odor that permeates your entire kitchen. Getting a disposal truly clean requires more than just running a few lemon peels down the drain. You need to physically remove the accumulated sludge that water alone cannot reach. When done correctly, the unit will run quieter, spin more freely, and eliminate the foul smell entirely.

Kill the Power First. Unplug the disposal from the wall outlet under the sink. If it is hardwired, turn off the dedicated circuit breaker in your electrical panel to ensure the unit cannot accidentally engage while you are working.
Attack Hidden Slime First. Put on a pair of rubber gloves and use a stiff-bristled scrub brush or an old toothbrush soaked in white vinegar to scrub the underside of the rubber splash guard flaps. This is where most of the decomposing food collects, so pay attention to the seams and folds.
Let Chemistry Do the Work. Pour a half-cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a half-cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a stopper or a rag to contain the chemical reaction, letting it fizz for 10 minutes to break down grease.
Flush Out the Gunk. Remove the stopper, turn the power back on, and run a steady stream of cold water. Turn on the disposal and let it run for at least 30 seconds to flush away the loosened gunk.
Abrade Away Stubborn Buildup. Drop a large handful of coarse salt and a few ice cubes into the disposal. Run the unit with the cold water tap open until the ice is completely crushed and flushed out.
Refresh With Fresh Citrus. Cut a lemon or orange into small wedges and feed them into the disposal one by one while the water is running. The citrus oils neutralize lingering odors and leave the kitchen smelling fresh.