Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly is crucial to maintain its efficiency and prevent unpleasant odors. Here is a detailed guide on the best way to clean your garbage disposal:

Daily Maintenance

Rinse with Cold Water:

• After Each Use: Run cold water for 15-30 seconds while the disposal is on to flush out small food particles and debris.
• Ensure Thorough Flushing: Continue running the water for a few seconds after turning off the disposal to ensure all particles are washed away.

Weekly Cleaning

Soap and Brush:

• Turn Off the Disposal: Make sure the disposal is turned off before cleaning.
• Clean the Rubber Splash Guard: Use a small brush and dish soap to scrub the underside and crevices of the rubber splash guard. This area often traps food particles and grease.
• Scrub the Upper Part: Use the brush to clean the upper part of the disposal, removing any grease and grime.
• Flush with Hot Water: Run hot water with a few drops of dish soap through the disposal to help dissolve grease.

Monthly Cleaning

Vinegar and Baking Soda:

• Pour Baking Soda: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal.
• Add Vinegar: Add a cup of vinegar and let the mixture fizz for a few minutes. This helps break down residues and deodorizes the disposal.
• Rinse with Hot Water: After the fizzing stops, rinse the disposal with hot water to wash away the loosened debris.

Ice and Salt:

• Fill with Ice Cubes: Place a handful of ice cubes into the disposal.
• Add Coarse Salt: Add a handful of coarse salt (such as rock salt or kosher salt).
• Run the Disposal: Turn on the disposal and run cold water. The ice and salt will help dislodge debris and sharpen the blades.

Deep Cleaning with Renuv Garbage Disposal Cleaner Tablets

• Use Renuv Tablets:
• Read Instructions: Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the package of the Renuv Garbage Disposal Cleaner tablets.
• Turn on the Water: Run a trickle of hot water.
• Run the Disposal:
• Insert the Tablet: Place a Renuv tablet into the disposal.
• Activate the Tablets: Allow the water to trickle for 30 - 45 seconds with tablet inside the disposal
• Activate the Disposal: Turn on the disposal for about 30 seconds to allow the tablet to dissolve and clean the disposal thoroughly.
• Rinse:
• Flush with Cold Water: Run cold water for another minute to ensure all residues are washed away.

Additional Tips for Maintaining a Clean Garbage Disposal

• Avoid Grease and Fat: Avoid putting grease, fat, or oil down the disposal, as they can solidify and cause clogs.
• Dispose of Food Properly: Avoid putting large amounts of fibrous or starchy foods (like potato peels, celery, or pasta) down the disposal, as they can cause clogs. Cut Food into Smaller Pieces: Cut larger food items into smaller pieces before putting them into the disposal to ensure they are ground efficiently.
• Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while using the disposal and for a few seconds after turning it off to help flush out debris.
• Use Citrus Peels: Grinding small pieces of citrus peels (like lemon or orange) can help clean the disposal and leave it smelling fresh.

Summary

Regular cleaning of your garbage disposal is essential to keep it running efficiently and to prevent odors and clogs. Daily rinsing with cold water, weekly scrubbing with soap and a brush, monthly cleaning with vinegar and baking soda, and deep cleaning with Renuv Garbage Disposal Cleaner tablets can ensure your disposal remains in optimal condition. Additionally, following best practices like avoiding grease and large food items and using citrus peels can help maintain a clean and efficient garbage disposal.