Fix a Smelly Garbage Disposal

The smell is rotting food stuck in the grind chamber and under the splash guard. Most people only run water — that doesn't clean it. Fix path: free → cheap → deep clean.

Free Fix (5 minutes)

1. Run cold water for 30 seconds with disposal OFF to flush loose debris
2. Turn disposal on, keep water running for another 30 seconds
3. Lift the rubber splash guard and scrub underneath with an old toothbrush and dish soap — this is where slime builds up
4. Pour 2 cups of ice cubes + 1 cup rock salt (or table salt) into disposal, run with cold water for 30 seconds — scours the blades and walls

Deep Clean (10 minutes, $5)

1. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into disposal, let sit 10 minutes
2. Pour 1 cup white vinegar, let fizz for 5 minutes
3. Flush with hot water for 1 minute
4. Drop 2-3 lemon or lime slices, grind with cold water — neutralizes odors

If Smell Persists

The P-trap under the sink may have buildup. Place a bucket under the trap, unscrew it (hand-tight, no tools needed), clean inside with a bottle brush, reassemble. If you see leaks or the disposal is 10+ years old, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.

Pro tip: Run cold water (not hot) when grinding food — hot water melts fats that then solidify in pipes. Once per week, grind citrus peels to maintain freshness. NEVER put coffee grounds, eggshells, or fibrous vegetables (celery, onion skins) down the disposal — they clog the system.