Let’s face it: a kitchen without a properly working garbage disposal is a major headache. From lingering odors to stubborn clogs, a struggling disposal can quickly turn your culinary haven into a hassle. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many homeowners seek out the best brands for garbage disposal to keep their kitchen running smoothly and smelling fresh.
While some might immediately think of the powerful units themselves, the truth is, the “best brands” also encompass the essential cleaning and maintenance products that ensure your food waste disposer performs optimally year after year. From banishing stinky residues to tackling tricky jams, choosing the right products is crucial. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into 10 top products that represent some of the best brands for garbage disposal, covering everything from high-performing units to essential cleaners and tools.
Get ready to discover the secret weapons for a spotless and efficient kitchen!
Our Top Picks for Garbage Disposal Excellence
Here’s a closer look at the products that make our list, designed to keep your kitchen clean, fresh, and jam-free.
1. Garbage Disposal Cleaner Deodorizer Tablets – 24 Pack
These easy-to-use tablets are a godsend for anyone looking to maintain their garbage disposal without a lot of fuss. Designed for regular upkeep, these tablets are compatible with virtually all major kitchen waste disposal models, ensuring your unit stays fresh and odor-free. They stand out for their natural citrus scent and the generous 24-pack supply, offering a full year of maintenance in one purchase.
-
Key Features:
- Compatible with all major kitchen waste disposal brands (Insinkerator, Moen, GE, etc.)
- Easy drop-in tablet application for monthly cleaning
- Natural orange-lemon deodorizer scent
- Bulk 24-pack for a 12-month supply
-
Pros:
- Universal compatibility
- Simple and convenient to use
- Pleasant, natural citrus fragrance
- Excellent value with a year’s supply
-
Cons:
- Primarily for maintenance, not for severe mechanical issues
- Requires regular monthly use for best results
-
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise these tablets for their ease of use and effective odor elimination. Many appreciate the long-lasting supply, making regular disposal care a simple, no-brainer task.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Affresh Garbage Disposal Cleaner, Removes Odor-Causing
When it comes to tackling stubborn odors in your disposal, Affresh is a name you can trust. This powerful cleaner uses a citrus-scented foaming action to reach deep into your machine’s chopper, internal cavity, and hose, removing the hidden grime that causes unpleasant smells. It’s not just effective; it’s also the No.1 Recommended by Whirlpool and KitchenAid brands, making it a go-to choice for many households.
-
Key Features:
- Powerful citrus-scented foaming action
- Removes odor-causing residues from chopper, internal cavity, and hose
- No.1 Recommended by Whirlpool and KitchenAid
- Septic tank safe and U.S. EPA Safer Choice Certified
- 9-month supply included (9 tablets)
-
Pros:
- Highly effective at removing hidden odors
- Trusted brand endorsement from major appliance manufacturers
- Safe for septic systems and environmentally certified
- Convenient monthly use
-
Cons:
- Focuses on cleaning and odor, not mechanical performance
- Might need more frequent use for very strong, persistent odors
-
User Impressions: Users consistently report impressive results, noting a significant reduction in odors after just one use. The foaming action is often highlighted as a satisfying visual confirmation that the cleaner is working its magic.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Glisten Garbage Disposer Cleaner and Freshener, Sink
Glisten offers a specialized solution for keeping your kitchen sink and disposal sparkling clean and fresh. This powerful foam cleaner doesn’t just mask odors; it scrubs the disposer’s sidewalls, blades, and under the splash guard, effectively eliminating build-up. With a refreshing lemon scent, it ensures lasting freshness and helps maintain your disposer’s proper function when used weekly.
-
Key Features:
- Powerful foam cleans sidewalls, blades, and under splash guard
- Eliminates build-up and smells in kitchen sinks and drains
- Leaves a lasting fresh lemon scent
- Recommended weekly use for optimal function
- Performance Guarantee, proudly made in the USA
-
Pros:
- Thorough cleaning action for all internal parts
- Effective at preventing build-up with regular use
- Pleasant and lasting lemon fragrance
- Backed by a performance guarantee
-
Cons:
- Requires weekly application, which might be more frequent than some competitors
- Does not address mechanical jams or breakdowns
-
User Impressions: Many users are loyal to Glisten, praising its consistent ability to keep their disposals odor-free and prevent grime accumulation. The fresh lemon scent is a particular favorite, making the kitchen feel cleaner instantly.
- See it on Amazon here
4. CLR Brands Garbage Disposal Cleaner and Deodorizer Pods, 20
CLR is a well-known name in household cleaning, and their Fresh & Clean Garbage Disposal Pods live up to the brand’s reputation for effectiveness. These fast-dissolving pods are designed for ideal maintenance, keeping your garbage disposal clean and your kitchen smelling fresh. They stand out by incorporating natural ingredients like baking soda and citric acid, making them powerful yet safe for regular use.
-
Key Features:
- Fast-dissolving pods for ideal maintenance
- Removes disposal smells, leaving a fresh, clean scent
- Contains natural ingredients like baking soda and citric acid
- Cleans all interior parts without scrubbing
- Easy to use: hot water, insert pod, run disposal
-
Pros:
- Trusted brand for tough cleaning challenges
- Uses natural ingredients for effective cleaning
- Very easy and convenient application
- Helps maintain smooth disposal operation
-
Cons:
- Primarily a deodorizer and cleaner, not for heavy-duty clogs
- Some users might prefer a different scent profile
-
User Impressions: Customers often remark on the distinct freshness these pods leave behind, noting their efficacy in neutralizing tough odors. The ease of use, simply dropping a pod and running water, is a frequently highlighted benefit.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Waste Maid 10-US-WM-058-3B Garbage Disposal Anti-Jam
If you’re looking for one of the best brands for garbage disposal units themselves, the Waste Maid 10-US-WM-058-3B is an excellent choice for everyday use. This 1/2 HP compact disposal features a permanent magnet motor and Waste Maid’s Torque Master grinding system, designed for anti-jam performance. It offers continuous feed operation and a straightforward 3-bolt mounting system, making it a great direct replacement for many older units. The generous 6-year warranty, plus a lifetime warranty against corrosion, provides exceptional peace of mind.
-
Key Features:
- 1/2 HP 2600 RPM permanent magnet motor
- Anti-jam Torque Master stainless steel grinding system
- Continuous feed operation for convenience
- Easy 3-bolt mounting system for quick installation
- 6-year warranty and lifetime corrosion warranty
-
Pros:
- Strong anti-jam capabilities
- Relatively quiet operation with balanced impellers
- Straightforward installation process
- Excellent warranty coverage for longevity
-
Cons:
- 1/2 HP may not be sufficient for large households with heavy food waste
- Permanent magnet motor can sometimes wear faster than induction motors in very heavy, commercial-like usage (though perfectly fine for most homes)
-
User Impressions: Homeowners appreciate the Waste Maid’s reliable performance and relatively quiet operation. Many find the installation process surprisingly simple, and the long warranty is often cited as a key factor in their purchasing decision.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Augwontior Garbage Disposal Wrench, Garbage Disposal
Sometimes, even the best brands for garbage disposal units will encounter a stubborn jam. That’s where the Augwontior Garbage Disposal Wrench comes in as an indispensable tool. Engineered with a precise 1/4″ hex head, this high-strength alloy steel wrench is designed to fit most major garbage disposal units. It empowers you to fix common jams yourself in minutes, saving you the cost and wait time of a plumber.
-
Key Features:
- Precise 1/4″ hex head fits most major disposal units
- Easy jam fix: insert and twist to loosen stuck blades
- Made from high-strength alloy steel for durability
- Saves money on plumber repairs
- Compact and handy for easy storage
-
Pros:
- Cost-effective DIY solution for common jams
- Durable and built to last
- Simple to use, no special skills required
- Convenient to store and retrieve when needed
-
Cons:
- Only fixes mechanical jams, not electrical or motor issues
- Requires safely disconnecting power before use
-
User Impressions: This wrench is a fan favorite for its sheer utility and ability to solve frustrating disposal jams quickly. Users often share stories of avoiding expensive plumber calls thanks to this simple, yet effective, tool.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Affresh Garbage Disposal Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor
Another fantastic offering from Affresh, this garbage disposal cleaner is specifically formulated to power away the smells created by odor-causing bacteria, rotting food debris, and stinky residue. Hiding deep within the grind chamber, impeller, and drain pipe, these residues are no match for Affresh’s powerful foaming action. It’s not just effective; it’s also EPA Safer Choice Certified and septic safe, making it a responsible choice for your home and the planet.
-
Key Features:
- No. 1 Recommended disposal cleaner brand by Whirlpool and KitchenAid
- Powers away smells from odor-causing bacteria and food debris
- Fresh citrus scent from powerful foaming action
- Trusted by appliance experts, with over 100 years of innovation behind the brand
- EPA Safer Choice Certified and septic safe
-
Pros:
- Strong endorsement from leading appliance manufacturers
- Targets and eliminates the source of odors effectively
- Leaves a pleasant, refreshing citrus scent
- Environmentally friendly and septic system compatible
-
Cons:
- Requires regular use to maintain optimal freshness
- Primarily for odor and grime, not for preventing mechanical wear
-
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the noticeable difference in kitchen air quality after using this Affresh product. The strong, yet pleasant, citrus scent and the feeling of a truly clean disposal are often mentioned as major positives.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Glisten Garbage Disposer Freshener, Sink Disposal Odor
For everyday freshness and routine odor management, Glisten’s Garbage Disposer Freshener capsules are a simple, no-fuss solution. These deodorizing capsules are designed to break up food particles and eliminate tough odors, leaving your kitchen smelling pleasant. With a unique formula that’s free of harsh chemicals, it’s safe for your disposer, plumbing, and septic system, making it an ideal choice for daily or as-needed use.
-
Key Features:
- Deodorizing capsules for everyday freshness
- Breaks up food particles and removes tough odors
- No harsh chemicals, safe for disposer, plumbing, and septic
- Lemon-scented to rinse away foul odors
- Easy to use daily or as needed
-
Pros:
- Convenient and quick for daily freshness
- Effectively neutralizes common kitchen odors
- Safe for all plumbing and septic systems
- Helps maintain the disposer between deeper cleanings
-
Cons:
- More focused on freshening than deep cleaning heavy build-up
- May require daily use for households with heavy disposal usage
-
User Impressions: Users love the simplicity and effectiveness of these freshener capsules for keeping daily odors at bay. The fresh lemon scent is a consistent favorite, and many appreciate the peace of mind knowing it’s safe for their septic system.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Glisten Garbage Disposal Cleaner and Odor Eliminator with
Glisten truly delivers with this powerful cleaner and odor eliminator, designed to safely and effectively clean and deodorize your garbage disposal. Its powerful foaming formula reaches deep to scrub away the toughest grunge and odor-causing build-up from the entire disposal and drain pipes. Made with natural, biodegradable ingredients, it’s a safe and convenient option that tackles hidden areas like blades, sidewalls, and under the splash guard.
-
Key Features:
- Cleans and deodorizes garbage disposals safely and effectively
- Powerful foaming formula scrubs away grunge and odor-causing build-up
- Made with natural, biodegradable ingredients
- Cleans blades, sidewalls, under splash guard, and drain pipes
- Recommended weekly use for optimal results
-
Pros:
- Comprehensive cleaning of all internal components
- Uses natural ingredients, making it environmentally friendly
- Biodegradable packet is convenient and safe
- Highly effective at both cleaning and odor elimination
-
Cons:
- Weekly use might be more frequent than some users prefer
- Not designed to fix mechanical failures or major clogs
-
User Impressions: Customers consistently praise this Glisten product for its thorough cleaning action and its ability to banish even stubborn odors. The natural ingredients are a big plus for those seeking eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
- See it on Amazon here
10. Summit Brands DP06N-PB Disposer Care Garbage Disposal
Summit Brands Disposer Care offers a scientifically designed and tested solution to maximize your garbage disposal’s performance and extend its life. The powerful blue foam strips away food particles, grease, and odor-causing grunge, cleaning the entire disposer, including sidewalls, blades, under the splashguard, and pipes. It’s a dedicated product for anyone serious about maintaining their investment and preventing costly repairs.
-
Key Features:
- Powerful blue foam strips away food particles, grease, and grunge
- Cleans entire disposer: sidewalls, blades, under splashguard, and pipes
- Scientifically designed and tested for effectiveness
- Maximizes performance and extends the life of the garbage disposer
- Easy to use application
-
Pros:
- Targets all key areas for comprehensive cleaning
- Scientifically proven formula for effective results
- Helps prolong the lifespan of your disposal unit
- Visually satisfying blue foam confirms it’s working
-
Cons:
- Might require specific application instructions (e.g., hot water temperature) for optimal foam
- Primarily a cleaning agent, not a mechanical repair solution
-
User Impressions: Users frequently commend the Summit Brands cleaner for its robust cleaning power and its ability to leave their disposals noticeably fresher. Many feel confident that regular use contributes to the longevity of their appliance.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About Garbage Disposals
Maintaining your garbage disposal can sometimes feel like a mystery. Here are some common questions to help you keep yours in top shape.
Q1: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
A: For most households, it’s a good idea to clean your garbage disposal weekly or at least monthly, especially if you use it frequently. Using a dedicated cleaner (like many of the products reviewed above) once a week or a few times a month can prevent odor-causing build-up. Between deep cleans, you can run cold water and a few ice cubes or citrus peels through it to help dislodge food particles and freshen it up.
Q2: What causes unpleasant odors in my garbage disposal?
A: Odors in your garbage disposal are typically caused by food particles, grease, and other debris that get stuck on the grinding elements, sidewalls, and under the splash guard. Over time, these residues rot and produce foul smells. Regular cleaning with specialized disposal cleaners is essential to break down and wash away these culprits.
Q3: Are garbage disposal cleaners safe for septic systems?
A: Many modern garbage disposal cleaners are formulated to be septic-safe. Brands like Affresh and Glisten specifically state their products are safe for septic tanks. Always check the product’s label to ensure compatibility with your septic system before use.
Q4: My garbage disposal is humming but not grinding. What should I do?
A: If your disposal hums but doesn’t grind, it usually means it’s jammed. First, ALWAYS turn off the power to the disposal at the wall switch or circuit breaker. Then, look underneath the disposal for a small hex-shaped hole in the center. Insert a garbage disposal wrench (like the Augwontior wrench reviewed) into this hole and turn it back and forth until the impellers loosen. If there’s no hex hole, you might try using tongs to carefully remove any visible obstruction from the drain opening (again, power OFF!). Once clear, hit the reset button, usually a small red button on the bottom of the disposal, and restore power.
Q5: What kind of food waste should I avoid putting in my garbage disposal?
A: To prolong the life of your disposal and prevent clogs, avoid putting hard-to-grind or fibrous items down the drain. This includes:
* Bones (especially large ones)
* Fibrous vegetables (celery, asparagus, corn husks, artichokes)
* Potato peels (can create a thick paste)
* Coffee grounds (can accumulate and form clogs)
* Pasta, rice, and bread (expand with water)
* Grease, fats, and oils (solidify and coat pipes)
* Fruit pits (avocado, peach)
Q6: What’s the difference between continuous feed and batch feed garbage disposals?
A:
* Continuous Feed: This is the most common type. You turn it on, and it grinds as long as the power is on. You can add food waste continuously while it’s running. It’s generally more convenient for larger amounts of food scraps.
* Batch Feed: With this type, you place all the food waste into the disposal, then put a special stopper/cover over the drain opening to activate it. It only grinds one “batch” at a time when the stopper is in place, offering an extra layer of safety, especially in homes with small children.
Q7: Do I need a specific horsepower (HP) for my garbage disposal?
A: The horsepower you need depends on your household’s size and how much you plan to use your disposal:
* 1/3 HP: Best for light use, single person, or very small households.
* 1/2 HP (like the Waste Maid reviewed): Good for small to medium-sized households, light to moderate use. Handles most common food scraps.
* 3/4 HP: Ideal for medium to large families, moderate to heavy use, can handle tougher scraps.
* 1 HP: Best for large families, heavy use, and those who want to dispose of a wider variety of tough food waste.
Conclusion
Choosing the best brands for garbage disposal isn’t just about selecting a powerful unit; it’s also about investing in the right maintenance products and tools to keep your kitchen running smoothly. From robust disposal units like the Waste Maid to highly effective cleaners like Affresh and Glisten, and even essential tools like the Augwontior wrench, each product plays a vital role in maintaining a clean, odor-free, and efficient kitchen.
By incorporating these top picks into your home maintenance routine, you can confidently say goodbye to pesky odors and frustrating jams, ensuring your garbage disposal remains a helpful asset for years to come.