How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal DIY

Clogs are the number one issue with garbage disposals.

They’re often resolved with a quick reset or simply removing the obstruction. This blog deals with times when a clog can be more stubborn and require more DIY intervention.

Common signs of a clogged garbage disposal include:

• Slow draining water in the sink
• Unpleasant odors coming from the sink
• Loud humming noise when turned on
• Complete failure to turn on
• Water backing up into the sink or dishwasher

How a Garbage Disposal Works

• The garbage disposal removes food waste by shredding it into tiny pieces, making it small enough to flow down the sewer drain.
• This process occurs inside a component called the grinding chamber.
• Whirling blades inside the grinding chamber chop up the food waste with the help of flowing water.
• The impeller arm and plate then push the mixture of food and water into the drain line.
• Some garbage disposals allow food to be fed into the grinding chamber bit by bit.
• Other models require the grinding chamber to be fully loaded before turning the disposal on.

Causes of Disposal Clogs

What causes a disposal clog in the first place? Most homeowners know the drill, but here’s a reminder just in case:

• Food Build-Up: Potato peels or rice can form a thick paste and block the blades.
• Grease: Fats and oils solidify in the pipes, causing blockages.
• Non-Food Items: Accidentally dropping items like silverware or sponges can jam the disposal.
• Overloading: Putting too much food into the disposal at once can overwhelm the system.
• Lack of Water: Not using enough water while grinding food can lead to clogs.

Tools You’ll Need

You should have the following tools on hand just in case the disposal clogs at a particularly inconvenient time:

• Plunger
• Tongs or pliers
• Allen wrench (usually provided with the unit)
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Hot water

Steps for Unclogging a Garbage Disposal

1. Press the Reset Button

Sometimes, all a garbage disposal needs a hard reset.

• Locate the small red button beneath the disposal unit.
• Press the button firmly. If it’s popped out, this indicates the motor was overloaded.
• Try turning the disposal on again to see if it works.

If the blockage remains, continue to Step 2.

2. Turn the Disposal with a Hex Key

Most disposals come with a built-in tool for manual unjamming. If you don’t have one, a 1/4-inch Allen wrench works fine.

1. Locate the hex key slot on the bottom of your garbage disposal.
2. Insert the key and turn clockwise and counterclockwise to dislodge the blockage.
3. Remove any freed debris from the sink before testing the unit.

If the blades spin freely now, you’re all set! Still stuck? Move to Step 3.

3. Check for Visible Blockages

You might be able to spot the obstruction just by looking inside the disposal.

1. Shine a flashlight into the drain to locate the clog.
2. Use tongs or pliers (never your hands!) to remove visible items, such as food, silverware, or cat food lids.
3. Run water to flush the system and test the unit again.

No success? Don’t worry — there’s more you can do.

4. Use Baking Soda & Vinegar

If the clog lies deeper in the pipes, a natural cleaning solution can break it down.

1. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the disposal.
2. Follow it with 1/2 cup of vinegar. (You’ll hear fizzing!)
3. Wait about 10 minutes, then run hot water to flush out the clog.

This simple remedy works great for grease and minor food blockages.

5. Use a Sink Plunger

For stubborn clogs, a sink plunger might be the answer. If you have a double-basin setup, make sure to block the other side of the sink.

1. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger cup.
2. Place the plunger over the disposal drain and pump firmly several times (use a cup plunger, not a toilet plunger!).
3. Check if the water drains — if it does, the clog is gone.

Still facing issues? It might be time to check the pipes.

6. Clean the P-Trap

The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe beneath your sink. Food build-up here is a common cause of clogs.

1. Place a bucket or towel beneath the P-trap to catch any water or debris.
2. Unscrew the P-trap by hand (or with pliers) and carefully remove it.
3. Clean out any blockages and rinse the pipe thoroughly.
4. Reattach the P-trap and run water to ensure smooth drainage.

If none of these solutions work, it’s time to call a plumber.

Preventing Future Clogs

• Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods like celery, pasta, or rice into the disposal.
• Never pour grease or oils down the drain.
• Use cold water when running the disposal to help solidify grease for easy flushing.
• Regularly clean the disposal with baking soda and vinegar to break down buildup.

FAQs: Unclogging a Garbage Disposal

Q: What can I safely put in my garbage disposal?

Soft foods, small scraps, and liquids are okay. Avoid hard items like bones, tough peels, or non-food materials.

Q: Can I use hot water in my garbage disposal?

It’s best to use cold water. Hot water can melt grease to solidify later in your pipes.

Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?

Cleaning once a week with natural ingredients or a disposal cleaner is ideal.

Q: What if my garbage disposal hums but doesn’t work?

This usually means the motor is stalled or jammed. Try the hex key trick to unjam it.

Q: Why does my garbage disposal smell?

Food particles can get stuck and decay. Clean it with baking soda, vinegar, or lemon peels.

Q: Do I need to run water every time I use the disposal?

Yes, cold water helps flush debris and keeps the blades running smoothly.

Q: Is it normal for disposals to make noise?

A low grinding sound is normal, but loud clunking might indicate something is trapped inside.

Q: When should I replace my garbage disposal?

Most disposals last 8–15 years. Replace yours if it frequently clogs or stops working efficiently.