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Dealing with Garbage Disposal Smells: What You Can Do

Picture of Jeff Niceley By   ·  2 minute read

Dealing with Garbage Disposal Smells: What You Can Do & When to Call Niceley's

A foul odor wafting from your kitchen sink is never pleasant. More often than not, the culprit is your garbage disposal. While this handy appliance helps manage food scraps, it can develop unpleasant smells if not properly maintained.

Here’s what you need to know about garbage disposal odors, tips to tackle them, and when it’s best to call Niceley’s for expert help.

Why Does My Garbage Disposal Smell?

Garbage disposal odors are usually caused by:

  • Food particle buildup: Leftover food can get stuck in the grinding chamber or on the blades, leading to rot.

  • Grease and fat: Grease solidifies and traps other debris, which creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

  • Drain or plumbing issues: Sometimes the problem lies deeper in the drain line rather than the disposal itself.

What You Should Never Put Down Your Garbage Disposal_ Niceleys Heating Cooling Appliance Repair

How to Get Rid of Garbage Disposal Smells

1. Clean with Ice and Salt

  • Drop a handful of ice cubes and a tablespoon of coarse salt into the disposal.

  • Run cold water and turn on the disposal. This helps dislodge trapped debris and sharpen the blades.

2. Use Citrus Peels

  • Toss small pieces of lemon or orange peel into the disposal and grind them up.

  • The natural oils help freshen the unit and mask bad odors.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar

  • Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, then add one cup of vinegar.

  • Allow it to fizz for 5-10 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear any loosened gunk.

4. Routine Flushing

  • Run cold water for at least 30 seconds before and after using the disposal.

  • This flushes small bits of food out of the grinding chamber and into the drain.

What You Should Never Put Down Your Garbage Disposal_fruit peels_Niceleys heating cooling appliance repair

When Should You Call Niceley’s for Repair?

While most odors can be addressed with regular cleaning, there are times when a lingering smell signals a bigger problem:

Problem What It Means Solution
Persistent bad odors Internal buildup, trapped food, or old bacteria Professional deep cleaning or repair
Strange noises along with smell Jammed blades, foreign objects, or motor issues Expert diagnosis and repair required
Water leaks under the sink Damaged seals or internal cracks Immediate professional attention needed
Disposal not grinding properly Motor malfunction or worn-out parts

Call for a professional repair. If your DIY cleaning doesn’t eliminate the odor—or if you notice strange noises, leaks, or loss of grinding power—don’t wait.

These can be signs of bigger issues best handled by a skilled technician.

Why Choose Niceley’s for Your Garbage Disposal Needs?

Niceley’s Appliance Repair in Erlanger, Kentucky, is your trusted partner for garbage disposal repair. When you call Niceley’s, you receive:

  • Decades of expertise (family-owned and operated since 1994)

  • Prompt, same-day service to minimize kitchen disruption

  • Upfront, transparent pricing—no hidden costs

  • Repairs on all makes and models

  • Friendly, local customer service

Whenever kitchen odors persist or appliance malfunctions disrupt your daily routine, trust the experts at Niceley’s to restore your peace of mind.

  Need Parts Or Service?    

Contact Niceley’s Appliance Repair today to schedule your garbage disposal service and experience quality, professionalism, and prompt care—every time.