How to Disinfect a Disposal

Turn on the cold water and run the garbage disposal to remove any loose food debris that might still be inside. Turn off the disposal and the water.

Place a handful of ice cubes into the disposal. Run the cold water again and turn on the disposal. The ice helps to remove food stuck between the blades and bottom of the disposal. Once the ice has disintegrated, turn off the water and the disposal.

Place the stopper into the second sink, if you have a double sink. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the garbage disposal. Slowly pour the cup of vinegar into the disposal. The mixture will begin to fizz and bubble up as the baking soda reacts to the vinegar. Place the stopper into the disposal sink or stuff a cloth into the drain.

Allow the baking soda/vinegar mixture to work for 10 minutes. While the mixture is disinfecting and cleaning, boil some water in a large pot. Once the water comes to a boil, turn off the stove.

Remove both stoppers from the sink. Slowly pour the boiled water into the garbage disposal and turn on the disposal to wash away any leftover debris. Turn on the cold water and allow the disposal to run for one more minute. Turn off the disposal and the water.