Preventing trash compactor odors

Trash compactors save you trips to the garbage can by compressing your kitchen trash into a small, tidy package. But taking out the trash less often means it stays longer in the kitchen, giving it more of a chance to, well, stink. Fortunately, trash compactor odors are easy to prevent.

The first step to preventing offensive odors is to never put raw meat or fish into the compactor. Ditto fruit rinds and skins. And it goes without saying that animal waste and bathroom trash don't belong in the kitchen compactor (or anywhere in the kitchen, for that matter). A good rule: if you wouldn't leave it overnight in the kitchen trash can, don't put it in the trash compactor.

Many compactors have features to reduce or prevent odors, such as charcoal filters or air-freshening discs. Replace the filter or disc every 6 months.

You can also prevent odors by periodically giving the compactor a good cleaning. Unplug the trash compactor before starting and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Follow label directions for all cleaning products.

1. Open the drawer, remove the bag and take it out to the trash.

2. Following the instructions in the owner's manual, remove the drawer from the cabinet.

3. Vacuum loose debris from inside the cabinet.

4. Wash the drawer and inside the cabinet with a soft cloth, mild detergent and warm water. Dry the surfaces thoroughly with a soft cloth.

5. Clean the ram with an anti-bacterial cleaner or degreaser and then thoroughly dry with a soft cloth.

6. Clean exterior surfaces with an appliance cleaner.

If your trash compactor has problems more serious than bad smells, our trash compactor repair guides can help.