Smelly drains can seriously ruin eating a meal. It happens when food particles and debris get trapped in the drain and start to rot and produce foul odors over time. There are easy fixes to get your drains functioning properly and smelling great without using harsh chemicals or pricey cleaning products. You probably have some of the best cleaning solutions in your pantry. The following three all-natural remedies can remove any gunky buildup and eliminate lingering odors.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This classic duo packs a powerful one-two punch against smells and clogs. The baking soda is a gentle abrasive that scrubs away stuck-on debris while the vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve grease and grime.

Citrus Peels

Don’t toss those lemon, lime, or orange peels. They contain d-limonene, a compound that’s great for cutting through odors and buildup. Plus, the fresh citrus scent is way better than last night’s fish remains.

Ice and Salt

When you need to bring out the big guns, grab some ice cubes and salt. As the ice gets chopped up in the garbage disposal, the coarse salt acts as an abrasive scouring agent to dislodge even the most stubborn clogs and gunk.

Here’s how to put these natural solutions to work.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

1. Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda down the disposal.
2. Pour in 1 cup of vinegar and let it fizz for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Run hot water for 30 seconds while running the disposal.

Ice and Salt Method

1. Fill the disposal about ⅓ full of ice cubes.
2. Sprinkle in ½ cup of rock salt.
3. Run the disposal until the ice is chopped up, and then flush with hot water.

Citrus Peel Method

1. Toss in lemon, lime, or orange peels and run the disposal.
2. For extra deodorizing power, sprinkle in some baking soda first.
3. Finish by running hot water for 30 seconds.

How often should you be cleaning your drains? A good rule of thumb is once a week for regular maintenance. But if you notice any lingering odors or sluggish draining, that’s a sign it’s time for a deeper cleaning.

Some items should never go into the garbage disposal because they can cause serious damage or clogs in your drains. They include:

• Celery stalks, corn husks, or artichokes
• Bones or fruit pits
• Crab or lobster shells
• Sticky foods like rice, pasta, and oatmeal
• Nonfood items

With just a little know-how and a few simple ingredients, you can say goodbye to smelly drains for good. But if you notice that your drain struggles to flush food waste, clogs frequently or stops working altogether, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. Contact us at Carlson Plumbing for reliable drain cleaning services in Fountain Valley, CA to keep your kitchen fresh and functional.