DIY guideGarbage disposal

Clean and freshen the garbage disposal

With the power off, scrub the slime from under the rubber splash guard, then grind ice and lemon peel with cold water to scour and freshen it.

7 steps

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Switch the disposal off, then unplug it under the sink or switch off its breaker.
Never put your hand down the disposal, even with the power off.
Lift the rubber flaps with an old toothbrush and scrub the slime off both sides of the guard.
Rinse the guard and the drain with hot water and a little dish soap.
Plug the disposal back in, or switch its breaker back on.
Run cold water, switch the disposal on and drop in a handful of ice cubes. The ice scours the inside as it breaks up.
Drop in a few small pieces of lemon peel and let it grind with the cold water running, then switch it off.
A smell that stays, water that drains slowly, or a leak underneath: ask Handyman for a plumber.
Don't pour drain cleaner into a disposal.

Handyman says: Still smells? I'll find a plumber.

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