Garbage disposals are truly a blessing in disguise, but they can sometimes become a source of unpleasant odors that waft through your kitchen. The culprit is usually the buildup of food particles and bacteria over time. But don’t worry, because we have some surefire ways to eliminate those odors and keep your kitchen smelling fresh. Impactful Construction Group is a CA licensed contractor based in Woodland Hills, serving the entire Los Angeles area. Our experienced team has acquired a wealth of knowledge over the years, not only in construction and remodeling but also in simple home improvement techniques like keeping your garbage disposal odor-free.
Whether you live in Encino, Studio City, or any other part of San Fernando Valley, these handy tips can help you keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh. So, let’s dive in and learn how we can combat those unpleasant odors.
Regular Cleaning
The simplest way to prevent odors from your garbage disposal is regular cleaning. This is a method that most homeowners in places like Burbank or Glendale would find easy to implement. Start by running hot water through your disposal for about a minute. This can help to loosen any residual food particles. Then, turn off the disposal and scrub the visible parts with a brush or sponge. Remember, our experienced team at Impactful Construction Group suggests doing this at least once a week. Regular cleaning can prevent the buildup of bacteria and food particles that cause those unpleasant odors.
Deep Cleaning
While regular cleaning is great for maintenance, every once in a while, your garbage disposal might need a deep cleaning. This is especially true if you’ve started noticing a persistent odor. Deep cleaning involves turning off the disposal, removing any large, easily accessible items, and then using a long brush to scrub the inside. Make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.
Natural Deodorizers
Did you know that you can use items commonly found in your kitchen to deodorize your garbage disposal? These methods are not only effective but also safe for the environment. Here are some natural deodorizers you can use:
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Lemon Peels: Grinding lemon peels in your disposal can help to eliminate odors. The citric acid in the peels helps to kill bacteria, and it leaves behind a fresh citrus scent.
- Ice and Salt: This combination not only helps to eliminate odors but also sharpens the blades of your garbage disposal. Pour two cups of ice into the disposal, followed by a cup of rock salt. Run the disposal until the ice is gone.
What to Avoid
Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent your garbage disposal from developing unpleasant odors, there are some things you should avoid putting in it. These include:
- Fats, Oils, and Grease: These substances can solidify and stick to the walls of your garbage disposal, causing a buildup over time.
- Potato Peels: The starch in potato peels can stick to the blades and cause a gunky buildup.
- Large Bones: While small fish or chicken bones can help to clean your disposal, large bones can damage it.
FAQ
Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
A: It’s a good idea to give your garbage disposal a quick clean about once a week, and a deep clean once a month.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my garbage disposal?
A: While bleach can kill bacteria, it can also harden grease and oil, making it more difficult to remove. It’s better to use natural deodorizers like vinegar and baking soda.
Q: My garbage disposal still smells after cleaning. What should I do?
A: If your garbage disposal still smells after cleaning, it might be time to call a professional. Our experienced team at Impactful Construction Group can help. Call or text (323) 591-3717 for assistance.
In conclusion, eliminating odors from your garbage disposal is a relatively straightforward process. It requires regular cleaning, occasional deep cleaning, and the use of natural deodorizers. By following these steps, homeowners in North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, and other parts of San Fernando Valley can keep their kitchens smelling fresh.
Ready to transform your space? Trust the experts at Impactful Construction Group. As CA licensed contractors based in Woodland Hills, we serve the entire Los Angeles area with premium construction and remodeling services. Call or text (323) 591-3717 for a free consultation and let’s bring your vision to life.
