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Last Revised: 7/3/25
Why is it that of all the possible times your garbage disposal could clog, it always happens when you need to use it – and use it now.
It could be when guests are over or when you’re in the middle of cooking dinner, but now you’re asking yourself, “is it actually possible to unclog my garbage disposal myself?” Like most homeowners, you’d much rather handle unclogging it on your own than call a plumber. We’ve been there.
When your garbage disposal suddenly stops working, you’re left with standing water, foul smells, and a kitchen sink that’s temporarily out of commission – often right when you need it most.
Yes – you can usually fix this on your own, safely and effectively. All you need are a few basic tools and the right steps to follow, which we’re about to show you.
At Mattioni, we’ve spent over 75 years helping homeowners handle kitchen plumbing issues, and that includes stubborn garbage disposal clogs. In this article, we’ll walk you through homeowner-approved solutions that are safe, effective, and easy to try – plus, when it’s time to call a plumber.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why clogs happen
- Which solutions are both safe and effective
- When it’s time to involve a licensed professional
Let’s talk about it.
Why Garbage Disposals Clog (Even If You’re Careful)
Despite their rugged design, garbage disposals aren’t equipped to handle every type of waste. The most frequent causes of clogs include:
- Fibrous food materials such as celery, corn husks, and thick vegetables
- Starches like rice, pasta, and potatoes, which expand and clump together
- Grease and fat, which solidify and obstruct water flow
- Foreign objects, including utensils, bones, or food packaging
Understanding the underlying cause of the clog can help you select the most effective method of resolution.
11 DIY Steps to Unclog Your Garbage Disposal
Step 0. Disconnect Power for Safety
Before performing any maintenance, ensure the disposal is completely powered off. Unplug the unit or switch off the breaker at your electrical panel. Never insert your hand into the disposal chamber under any circumstances.
Step 1. Press the Reset Button
Locate the red reset button on the bottom of the unit. If it has tripped, press it firmly until it clicks. Restore power and test the unit.
Step 2. Rotate the Flywheel Manually
Most disposals have a hex-shaped hole underneath. Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench and turn it back and forth to free the impellers.
If your unit doesn’t have this, insert a wooden spoon handle into the drain from above and gently wiggle the impellers side to side (with the unit off and unplugged).
Step 3. Inspect & Remove Visible Obstructions
Shine a flashlight into the disposal chamber. Use tongs or pliers (never fingers) to pull out any obstructions such as bones, fibrous scraps, or foreign objects.
Step 4. Flush With Cold Water
Run cold water for 30-60 seconds while the unit runs to help dislodge smaller debris and clear the drain line. This step can be repeated after each manual intervention.
Step 5. Use Vinegar & Baking Soda Rinse
Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Allow the solution to fizz for 5-10 minutes, then flush with hot water.
Pro Tip: Avoid chemical drain cleaners – these can degrade the disposal’s seals and internal components.
Step 6. Use Dish Soap For Greasy Clogs
If you suspect grease buildup is the culprit, add a squirt of dish soap into the disposal and allow it to sit briefly. Run the disposal with cold water to help break down the residue.
Step 7. Use Ice Cubes & Salt
Place several ice cubes and two tablespoons of coarse salt into the disposal, then briefly run cold water over it. This process can help clear residue from the impellers and chamber walls.
Step 8. Use A Sink Plunger
If water remains standing in the sink but the disposal isn’t jammed, the clog may be located past the disposal and in the drain line. Use a sink plunger with the opposite drain sealed (if you have a double sink) to generate enough pressure to clear the blockage.
Step 9. Check The Dishwasher Connection Hose
If you’ve tried the above steps but water still won’t drain, your dishwasher connection could be the culprit. In configurations where the dishwasher discharges through the disposal, a blockage or kink in the hose may affect performance. Inspect and clear the hose if drainage remains impaired after other interventions.
Step 10. Let The Motor Cool Down
If the disposal stopped mid-use and won’t restart, it may be overheated. Wait 10-15 minutes before trying the reset button again.
Step 11. Inspect The Drain Trap
If the sink still won’t drain, the clog might be in the P-trap. If you’re comfortable with plumbing work, place a bucket underneath, unscrew the trap, and check for blockage. If you’re unsure, this is a good time to call a pro.
Quick Answer: How do I unclog a garbage disposal without calling a plumber?
First, disconnect power. Press the reset button underneath the unit. If still stuck, rotate the flywheel with an Allen wrench or use a wooden spoon to move the impellers. Remove blockages with tongs, flush with cold water, and try a vinegar rinse or ice/salt cleaning. Avoid chemical drain cleaners. If these steps fail, consult with a professional.
When It’s Time to Call a Plumber
If your disposal continues to malfunction despite these interventions, or if you encounter any of the following, professional service is recommended:
- The motor hums without turning
- The reset button trips repeatedly
- The unit will not activate
- Water leaks from beneath the disposal
- Obstruction cannot be removed safely
These symptoms may indicate electrical faults, internal mechanical failure, or structural damage – situations best handled by a licensed plumber.
Restore Your Kitchen’s Function with Confidence
A clogged garbage disposal can stop your kitchen in its tracks – but now, you’ve got the tools and the know-how to safely fix the most common issues on your own.
Still, not every cloag can – or should – be handled without help. If the motor’s dead, the reset button keeps tripping, or you’re dealing with a leak, that’s where we come in.
At Mattioni, we’re committed to helping you restore your home’s comfort with clarity and confidence. Our licensed plumbers provide prompt, respectful service and lasting solutions – and have been for over 75 years.
Need expert help now? Call (610) 400-8510 or schedule your service online today.
