Why Does a Garbage Disposal Smell?

Causes

• Your garbage disposal will smell if food builds up inside of it. Not only will the odor of old food drift up out of your sink, but the buildup will also provide a place for bacteria to grow. The bacteria will add a foul, spoiled odor to that of the old food.

Solution

• You can clear the smell out of your garbage disposal by getting rid of the food and the bacteria. Pour a half-cup of white vinegar into an ice cube tray, then fill it the rest of the way with water. Freeze the solution, then place a few ice cubes into the garbage disposal. The ice bits will remove the food, while the vinegar will get rid of the lingering odor.

Prevention

• You can prevent the odor from coming back by properly maintaining your garbage disposal. Always run it with plenty of water and add food material slowly so it has a chance to clear out completely. Every month or so, flush the disposal with vinegar to keep it smelling fresh.