Can You Really Use Lemon in Your Garbage Disposal? Here’s What San Diego’s Trusted Plumber Says

Fresh Facts from John Padilla Plumbing - Your Reliable Plumber & Drain Specialist in San Diego, CA

At John Padilla Plumbing, we know how tempting it is to toss a slice of lemon into your garbage disposal to freshen things up. After all, that citrusy scent feels like an instant kitchen win. But before you drop those lemon peels down the drain, let’s talk about what’s really happening and how to keep your disposal fresh and your plumbing safe.

Understanding Why Your Garbage Disposal Smells

A smelly sink isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a sign that leftover food particles, grease, and bacteria are building up inside your disposal. Over time, this can lead to stubborn odors and even clogs. While a lemon might seem like a natural fix, it’s often just masking a deeper issue.

Common causes of garbage disposal odors:

• Food particles trapped in hard-to-reach places

• Bacteria and mildew growth

• Grease buildup and poor drainage

So, Can You Put Lemons in Garbage Disposal?

Yes, but with caution. Lemons can temporarily freshen your sink because their natural acidity cuts through grease and leaves a pleasant scent. However, the same acid that gives lemons their cleaning power can also damage metal parts and corrode pipes over time.

Here’s the safe way to use lemon:

1. Use a small amount of lemon juice and not the peels.

2. Run plenty of cold water before and after using your disposal.

3. Avoid frequent use to prevent wear and tear.

If you really want to keep your disposal fresh, it’s better to schedule regular maintenance with professionals who can clean, inspect, and clear your drains the right way.

The Best Way to Keep Your Kitchen Fresh

Rather than relying on lemons or DIY tricks, routine professional care ensures your disposal and drains run efficiently all year long. That’s where John Padilla Plumbing comes in, we provide genuine care, excellent service, and quality work that lasts a lifetime.

Our team is known across San Diego and surrounding areas for trustworthy service, transparent pricing, and reliable results. When you call us, you’re not just getting a plumber, you’re getting a partner who values your home like it’s our own.

The John Padilla Plumbing Sewer and Drains Membership Program

When you join our Membership Program, you’re choosing top-tier plumbing care with exclusive benefits designed to keep your home’s plumbing in perfect shape all year round.

Here’s what you’ll enjoy as a member:

• 10% off all plumbing and service repairs

• Annual water filter replacement (filter cost not included)

• Double standard labor warranty for Priority Members (with water quality and pressure test)

• Complimentary annual plumbing inspection ($275–$575 value)

• One complimentary drain clearing (up to 25 ft) and annual sewer camera inspection ($488 value)

• Annual water quality, pressure, and heater tests

• Priority scheduling and service reminders

• Dispatch fee waived ($89 value)

• Move your membership easily if you relocate

All billed monthly for your convenience.

Keep Your Home Fresh, Functional, and Problem-Free

At John Padilla Plumbing, our promise is simple, genuine care, excellent service, and quality work that lasts a lifetime. Whether it’s a clogged drain, a smelly disposal, or a full plumbing upgrade, we’re ready to help.

Give us a call today at (858) 951-1369 or contact us online to schedule your appointment. Experience the trusted service San Diego homeowners rely on, because with John Padilla Plumbing, your home deserves nothing less than the best.