Lemon peels are definitely a nice touch for freshness, but I'd be cautious about tossing them down regularly. I've seen plenty of disposals jammed up from citrus peels—especially if they're older units or lower horsepower models. The fibers in lemon and orange peels can sometimes wrap around the blades or build up over time, causing more headaches than they're worth.
If you're looking for a natural freshener that's easier on your disposal, try ice cubes instead. Just toss a handful in every now and then. The ice sharpens the blades, knocks loose any stuck-on gunk, and helps clear out odors without risking clogs. If you still want that citrus scent, you could freeze some diluted lemon juice into cubes and use those occasionally. It's gentler on the disposal and still gives you that fresh smell.
Also, about checking inside before flipping the switch—good habit, but don't rely solely on visual checks. I've pulled out everything from spoons to wedding rings that people swore weren't in there. If you're hearing weird noises or grinding issues, always unplug or cut power first, then carefully feel around inside with a flashlight and some needle-nose pliers. Better safe than sorry.
One last thing: if your disposal is consistently making strange noises even after you've cleared it, it might be time to check underneath. Sometimes the mounting screws loosen up, causing vibrations and noise. Tightening them up can make a surprising difference.
"I've pulled out everything from spoons to wedding rings that people swore weren't in there."
Haha, this hits home. Last month I got called out to a house because the disposal was making a racket and barely grinding. Owner insisted nothing unusual went down there. After some careful fishing around (power OFF, of course), guess what I found? A tiny metal measuring spoon wedged perfectly between the blades. The homeowner's face was priceless—"Ohhh, THAT'S where it went!"
Anyway, totally agree on citrus peels. Seen plenty of disposals jammed up with lemon fibers wrapped tight around the impellers. Ice cubes are great, but another trick I've used is baking soda and vinegar once in a while. It bubbles up nicely, clears out gunk, and helps neutralize odors without risking jams.
And yeah, don't underestimate those mounting screws underneath. Had one disposal rattling like crazy; turned out it was just loose screws causing vibration against the sink basin. Tightened them up and boom—good as new.
"Ice cubes are great, but another trick I've used is baking soda and vinegar once in a while."
Definitely second the baking soda and vinegar...works wonders. Also, double-check the rubber splash guard—had one that got warped over time and caused weird noises. Quick replacement solved everything.
"double-check the rubber splash guard—had one that got warped over time and caused weird noises."
Good call on the splash guard, hadn't thought of that. Also, sometimes a lemon wedge or two helps freshen things up after the vinegar trick...keeps it smelling decent.
Yeah, warped splash guards can definitely mess things up. Had one myself that started making this weird rattling noise—thought the disposal was shot. Pulled it out, cleaned around the edges, and realized it was just slightly bent causing vibrations. Also, lemon wedges are good, but tossing in some ice cubes every now and then sharpens the blades a bit and clears out gunk stuck underneath...helps keep things running smoother in my experience.
