Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal

This post original appeared HERE
 The parts of your trash compactor that should be cleaner regularly are those that come into contact with trash the most frequently. This includes the ram, which is what presses the garbage down into the bag, and the container that holds the bag, which may become torn and leak onto the container. Cleaning both of these parts regularly will eliminate odors and keep mold from growing on and in your appliance.

Things You'll Need:

• Water and dish soap (or all-purpose cleaner) Rubber gloves Wet/dry vacuum Rag or sponge Antibacterial cleaner (or 1/4 to 1/2 cup bleach and 1 gallon water) Bleach

Step 1

Use an all-purpose cleaner or water and dish soap to wipe down (with a rag or sponge) the front of the machine. If it is stainless steel, consider using a cleaner made specifically for that material.

Step 2

Put on rubber gloves before cleaning the compactor's interior for hygiene and to avoid being cut by loose shards of glass or metal parts.

Step 3

Pull out the drawer and use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out any loose glass, metal or other debris.

Step 4

Spray an antibacterial cleaner onto the interior surface of your trash compactor's container (where the bag goes) and the ram, the flat part that pushes down the garbage. Though available at drug, grocery and hardware stores, antibacterial cleaner can also be made at home with water and a bit of bleach. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 cup bleach per gallon of water; wipe it on with a sponge or rag.

Step 5

Allow the areas to air-dry before putting in a fresh trash bag and closing the drawer.

• Spray the inside of your trash compactor with a disinfectant between cleanings to discourage bacteria from growing. If your compactor has a filter, replace it once or twice a year.