Keeping your garbage disposal clean and fresh can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! A simple and eco-friendly method involves using something you likely already have in your kitchen—citrus peels. Not only does this method help clean the disposal, but it also leaves your kitchen smelling fresh and inviting. Here's how to do it.
Why Citrus Peels Work
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are naturally acidic, which helps break down grease and grime in your garbage disposal. Additionally, their oils leave a pleasant and clean scent. The rough texture of the peels can also act as a mild abrasive, scrubbing away residue on the disposal's blades.
What You'll Need
A handful of citrus peels (lemons, limes, oranges, or a mix)
Ice cubes (optional, for added scrubbing power)
Cold water
Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare the Peels
Gather citrus peels from your latest kitchen project—whether it’s juicing lemons for a recipe or snacking on an orange. If you don’t have fresh peels on hand, freeze any leftovers to use later.
Run Cold Water
Turn on your tap and let cold water run into the garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or residue, making it easier to scrape away.
Add Citrus Peels
Drop the citrus peels into the disposal a few at a time. If you want to enhance the cleaning effect, toss in a handful of ice cubes as well. The ice cubes add an extra abrasive element that helps clean the blades and dislodge any stuck debris.
Turn On the Disposal
Turn on the garbage disposal and let it run for about 20–30 seconds. The grinding action will crush the citrus peels and ice, cleaning the disposal and releasing a fresh citrus scent.
Flush with Water
After the disposal has finished grinding, let cold water run for an additional 10–15 seconds to flush out any remaining debris.
Tips for Maintenance
Use this method once a week to keep your garbage disposal clean and smelling great.
Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods (like potato peels or celery) into the disposal, as they can cause clogs or buildup.
Always run water while the disposal is operating to ensure proper flushing of waste.
When to Call a Professional
If your garbage disposal still smells bad after cleaning or isn’t functioning correctly, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. Diamond Plumbing's expert plumbers in Ada, Oklahoma, are here to help! Whether it’s a clogged drain or a faulty garbage disposal, our team has the experience and tools to get things running smoothly again.
Contact Diamond Plumbing Today!Phone: 580-332-7668 Website: DiamondPlumbingOK.com
Give this citrus peel method a try and enjoy a cleaner, fresher garbage disposal today. And remember, for all your plumbing needs, Diamond Plumbing has you covered!
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