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Does Cleaning a Garbage Disposal With Ice Really Work?

April 6, 2024

Garbage disposals can come in handy. With the press of a button, they’ll pulverize food particles from your dirty dishes; there’s no need to scrape them into the trash and you won’t have to deal with any smells.

Like all kitchen appliances, however, they have to be maintained regularly, and that means cleaning them now and then. That will prevent food scraps from building up inside, which can lead to clogs and odors.

For example, you can clean your garbage disposal with white vinegar and baking soda. Ice cubes are another option.

What’s the best way to clean a garbage disposal with ice? Do you just drop them into the sink drain? For the answers, be sure to keep reading!

How to Clean Your Garbage Disposal With Ice Cubes

For this method, you’ll first need to prepare some ice cubes.

For example, you can make them with an ice tray in the freezer or with an ice maker.

Step 1: Pour the Ice Down the Drain

ice cubes

Place the ice cubes in a large bowl or glass and pour them down the drain. Don’t worry if they don’t all fit – you don’t need to completely stuff the garbage disposal for the method to work.

Step 2: Add Dish Soap

dish soap

Next, add one cup of dish soap – it’ll help wash away any grease or gunk that’s covering the blades.

Step 3: Turn On the Garbage Disposal

garbage disposal switch

Turn on the garbage disposal. The ice will gradually turn a brownish color as the disposal blades pulverize it into small pieces, which will help remove any food residue that’s stuck underneath.

Step 4: Rinse With Water

rinse with water

To do that, simply use a stopper and fill up the sink with water. Once the sink is full, remove the stopper and run the disposal again – the flow of water will help get rid of any leftover residue.

Supply:

  • Ice cubes
  • Dish soap

You can add half a cup of lemon juice or baking soda with the dish soap for extra deodorizing power.

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Potential Issues with the Ice Cubes Cleaning Method

It Won’t Be Enough to Eliminate Odors

The ice cubes will help remove any food scraps that are stuck beneath the disposal blades. Without a cleaning agent, however, they likely won’t be enough to eliminate all the odors – that’s why it’s so important to add dish soap, along with the ice.

Adding lemon juice is another option. Avoid adding lemon peels as they can damage or clog the drain.

Using Too Many Ice Cubes Can Cause Blockages

ice cubes

Depending on how many ice cubes you use, it can also cause issues in the pipes. For example, stuffing too much ice down the disposal unit can clog the drain line, which can cause black water to come back up into the kitchen sink.

To prevent that, only add the necessary amount of ice down the sink. Don’t overstuff it with ice cubes.

Hot Water May Break Down Oils and Fats

Using hot water to clean the garbage disposal can be problematic as it may melt the fats and oils trapped deep within the drain, leading to clogs.

Given that, it’s best to rinse the garbage disposal with cold water. It’ll keep the oils and fats solid, which will allow them to pass through the drain pipes without any issues. Avoid using boiling water.


How Often Should You Clean the Garbage Disposal With Ice?

How often you need to clean the disposal depends on how often you use it. For example, if you use it every day, it’s probably best to clean it every week – that will prevent odors, clogging, and gunk buildup.

If you only use your disposal now and then, you can probably get away with cleaning it once every month.


ACTIVE Garbage Disposal Cleaner – An Alternative to Ice

ACTIVE Disposal Cleaner is specially formulated to deep clean garbage disposals; this makes it much more effective than ice. Not only will it remove food scraps and grime but it’ll also eliminate odors, leaving a fresh scent.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Disposal Cleaner
disposal faucet full stream

Step 1:

Run hot water from the tap for one minute before using the ACTIVE tablets.

active garbage disposal cleaner tablet

Step 2:

With the water running, place one ACTIVE tablet down the drain, then turn on the garbage disposal for one minute.

active disposal cleaner foam

Step 3:

Leave the water running and the garbage disposal on until all of the foam drains.

Rinse the drain area afterwards with water.

For the best results, use ACTIVE Garbage Disposal Cleaner tablets once to twice a month.


Garbage Disposal Ice Cube Cleaning Method – FAQs

Should you run cold or warm water after adding ice and dish soap?

It’s best to use cold water – you don’t want to use warm or hot water as it can melt the fats, leading to clogs in the pipes.

Can I use drain cleaners to unclog the disposal?

Avoid using drain cleaner and other harsh chemicals as they can cause significant damage to your pipes over time.

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Picture of Ethan Clarke

Ethan Clarke

Ethan Clarke is a seasoned expert in appliances and household waste systems. Referencing his extensive experience as an appliance repairman, Ethan shares his invaluable knowledge through detailed maintenance & troubleshooting manuals. Ethan’s insights help homeowners understand and maintain their appliances efficiently, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. He’s here to provide practical, easy-to-follow advice for all your appliance needs.

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