How to Unblock a Garbage Disposal

Clear out the area below the sink and look at the underside of the garbage disposal. There should be a red reset button either on the side or bottom of the disposal. Push it in, then run cold water into the disposal and try to flip on the disposal. If it doesn't come on immediately, turn off the switch so the motor isn't damaged.

Shut off the power to the disposal, if possible. Insert the end of the broom handle into the top of the disposal and give it a few counterclockwise turns. This should unjam the motor or at least loosen the clog.

Turn the garbage disposal's power back on and run cold water into the disposal. Flip on the disposal. It should work with little difficulty. If the disposal doesn't work or sounds like it's struggling, flip off the power and use the broom handle again. It may take a few tries, but should eventually get things moving.

Pour about a cup of white vinegar into the disposal and let it sit for 10 minutes. Turn on the cold water and then flip on the disposal to clear out the vinegar. This treatment freshens the garbage disposal, and the acid in the vinegar should soften any food remains in the disposal.