Maintaining a pristine kitchen extends beyond spotless countertops and gleaming appliances; it's crucial not to overlook the hygiene and cleanliness of your kitchen drain and garbage disposal.
Here is a comprehensive—but quick and easy—step-by-step guide to ensure these often-forgotten kitchen components remain clean and functional. Whether you're dealing with lingering odors or just aiming for a thorough clean, here’s what you need to effectively clear and freshen up your drain and garbage disposal.
What You Will Need:
Flashlight
Rubber Gloves
Baking Soda
Lemon
White Vinegar
Hot Water
Step 1: Clear The Drain
First, check for any large food particles or other debris that could be blocking the garbage disposal.
CAUTION: Be sure to switch off the power to the garbage disposal to prevent the blades from accidentally turning on while you're cleaning it out.
Then, shine a flashlight down the drain to look for any large pieces of food or other debris. If you see something, don a pair of rubber gloves and carefully remove it.
Step 2: Freshen It Up
Once the drain and garbage disposal is clear, it's time to flush it out. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly into the sink drain to coat the disposal. To add a clean scent, squeeze lemon juice on top as well. Pour vinegar onto the baking soda; it will bubble up. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes, then flush everything down the drain with hot or boiling water.
How Often Should You Clean Your Drain and Garbage Disposal?
How often to clean a drain and garbage disposal depends on how much you cook and how heavily you use it. Do you compost veggie scraps, toss them out, or put them in the disposal? If you run it every time you straighten up the kitchen, you should clean your garbage disposal at least once a week to prevent the buildup of food particles, grease, and odors.
