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I Tried Cleaning My Garbage Disposal With Baking Soda

By Stefan Gheorghe
Stefan Gheorghe on Homedit
Stefan Gheorghe Founder/CEO
Stefan Gheorghe is the founder and CEO of Homedit.com. In 2008, he launched the platform out of his passion for interior design and home decoration.
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Let’s be honest: garbage disposals make life easier… until they start to stink. Even if you’re careful about what you toss down there, food bits get stuck, and odors build up fast.

So I tested a few baking soda methods to see which ones actually clean and freshen my disposal and what I learned made a big difference in how I clean it now.

Baking soda kitchen

Why I Use Baking Soda

It’s cheap, safe, and already in my kitchen. Baking soda is great at breaking down grease, neutralizing odors, and scrubbing without scratching anything. Plus, it doesn’t mess with my pipes or disposal parts.

Method 1: Baking Soda and Hot Water

  • Unplug the disposal (or flip the breaker off).
  • Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub the drain opening and the rubber splash guard.
  • Rinse the sponge, add more baking soda, and scrub inside the chamber as far as I can reach.
  • Pour ½ cup of baking soda directly into the disposal, run it with hot water for 2 minutes, then flush for 2 more.
  • It left everything smelling clean and running smooth.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar (My Favorite)

  • Scrub with baking soda and a sponge first.
  • Then pour ½ cup baking soda into the disposal, followed by ½ cup white vinegar.
  • Let the fizzy mix sit for 10 minutes.
  • Flush with hot water. Done!
  • The foaming action really helped lift off grime. This combo is still my go-to it lasts the longest and smells the freshest.
I Tried Cleaning My Garbage Disposal With Baking Soda Infographic

Quick Tips to Keep It Clean Longer

  • Run water while and after using the disposal.
  • Grind ice cubes once in a while to knock off stuck food.
  • Avoid grease, stringy veggies (like celery), starchy stuff (like potatoes), and too many eggshells or coffee grounds.

If It’s Clogged

  • Always unplug or turn off power first.
  • Use tongs (never your hand!) to remove clogs.
  • Clean thoroughly afterward and keep up with regular maintenance.

Baking soda works especially with vinegar. Just remember: scrubbing the splash guard and chamber is key. Skipping that step is what keeps odors around.