How to Clean a Rusty Garbage Disposal

Just like many other small kitchen appliances, your garbage disposal needs to be cleaned regularly to keep it working properly. If you notice that your garbage disposal isn’t chopping up food and waste effectively, or that it’s getting stuck between sessions, the disposal blades are probably rusted. To remove this rust, use some lemon juice, salt, and the few steps below.

Step 1 – Mix the Ingredients

First, create your rust-removing mixture. Mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 3 tablespoons of salt, and stir well.

Step 2 – Pour Mixture Down Disposal

Next, pour the mixture down the garbage disposal and allow it to sit for approximately 24 hours. Do not dispose of any food or run any water in the sink.

Step 3 – Rinse the Disposal

Rinse the garbage disposal with cool water. Then, insert a few ice cubes to the inside of the disposal.

Step 4 – Turn the Disposal On

Finally, turn on the system to grind the ice cubes, sharpening the blades and helping to remove the rust. If your disposal still isn't working well, it could be clogged.