What’s That Smell? How to Eliminate Foul Odors from Your Garbage Disposal

A working garbage disposal should help keep your kitchen clean and odor-free—but when something starts to stink, it can make your entire kitchen unpleasant. At 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration, we frequently get calls from homeowners in Southern California wondering why their garbage disposal smells bad and what they can do to fix it.

The good news? In most cases, foul odors coming from your disposal are caused by buildup, residue, or improper use—and there are safe, effective ways to get rid of the stink without damaging your unit.

Here’s a closer look at why garbage disposals smell and how to keep yours clean and fresh.

Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Odors

Garbage disposals are designed to grind up food waste so it can flow safely through your plumbing system. However, small particles can linger behind, especially if:

• You use the disposal without enough water
• Grease or fat has been poured down the drain
• Fibrous or starchy foods (like potato peels) are stuck in the blades
• The splash guard is collecting grime

Over time, bacteria can thrive in these moist, food-rich environments—leading to that all-too-familiar sour or rotten smell.

DIY Methods to Eliminate Odors

If your disposal is working but just smells off, here are some safe, plumber-approved steps you can try:

• Flush with Hot Water and Dish Soap
  Run hot (not boiling) water with a few drops of dish soap through the disposal for 30–60 seconds to break down grease and wash away residue.
• Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
  Pour ½ cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of white vinegar into the disposal. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. This natural combo helps neutralize odors and clean the walls of the unit.
• Grind Citrus Peels
  Toss in small pieces of lemon, lime, or orange peel with a little ice. The citrus oils deodorize while the ice helps knock loose debris from the blades.
• Scrub the Splash Guard
  Many smells come from the rubber guard—not the disposal itself. Carefully lift and clean the underside of the splash guard with a soapy sponge or an old toothbrush.

What Not to Do

When tackling disposal odors, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t use bleach: It may seem like a quick fix, but bleach can damage pipes and rubber seals and may create harmful fumes.
• Don’t use drain cleaner: Most chemical drain cleaners are too harsh for disposals and can erode components over time.
• Don’t grind large bones or non-food items: These can damage the blades and contribute to clogs and bad smells.

When Odors Signal a Bigger Problem

If you’ve cleaned your disposal thoroughly and the smell keeps coming back—or if you notice slow draining, strange noises, or leaks—it may be time to call in a professional. Persistent odors can be a sign of:

• Food buildup deeper in the plumbing
• Clogged or partially blocked drain lines
• Worn or broken disposal components
• Mold or mildew in the pipes

At 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration, we offer expert garbage disposal service that goes beyond surface-level fixes. We’ll inspect your unit, check for underlying plumbing issues, and provide repairs or replacements as needed.

Keep Your Kitchen Fresh with Professional Help

A stinky garbage disposal isn’t just annoying—it can also signal a problem that needs professional attention. Whether your disposal needs a deep clean, a repair, or a full replacement, 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration is here to help.

Give us a call at 866-437-0205 to schedule fast, reliable garbage disposal service in Southern California. We’ll make sure your kitchen smells as clean as it looks.