Lemon is the key to fresh-smelling garbage disposals, but most use it wrong. Here’s the right way to use it

Lemon is often touted as a wonder product for cleaning and freshening up your home, and nowhere is this more evident than in the kitchen, specifically for garbage disposals. Yet, many people are inadvertently using lemons wrong, which results in subpar freshness or, worse, potential damage to the disposal system itself.
You might be skeptical and wondering whether it’s worth reading further, but consider the consequences of an unclean garbage disposal: those lingering smells, the buildup of gunk, or even faced with the expensive repairs. Read on to discover the right way to employ this citrusy savior effectively.

Why Lemons Work So Well
Lemon’s natural acidity and antibacterial properties make it ideal for cleaning and deodorizing. The essential oils in lemon zest can cut through grease and grime while leaving a pleasant scent that outlasts commercial cleaners. Additionally, the abrasive nature of lemon peel can help scrub away minor residue inside the disposal.
The Common Mistakes
1. Incomplete Cleaning:
Simply throwing a few lemon peels down the disposal and expecting an instant freshening effect is not enough.
2. Overuse:
On the opposite end, frequently using lemons without proper technique can corrode parts of your garbage disposal, leading to costly repairs.