In this guide
TL;DR: A garbage disposal splash guard can be removable or built into the mounting assembly. With the disposal's power disconnected as the model directs, clean an approved removable guard outside the opening; leave an integrated guard installed and clean only its accessible surfaces. Food film often collects beneath the rubber flaps, so identify the design before pulling on them.
Moen's support instructions distinguish both designs and require disconnecting the disposal's power supply. Unplug a cord-connected unit safely, or turn off its power at the main electrical service panel as directed. Keep electrical connections dry and hands out of the grinding chamber.
Remove only a guard designed to lift out
On the removable Moen design, the guard lifts upward when gripped from the top. Its integrated version stays in the mounting hardware. Check your model's instructions before trying this: resistance is a reason to stop, and the sink flange or mounting assembly should remain assembled for routine cleaning.
Wash an approved removed guard by its care instructions, paying attention to the underside and the spaces between the flaps. Use the permitted cloth or brush without stretching the rubber or forcing a metal pick through it. Rinse away the cleaning solution before refitting it.
InSinkErator permits hand washing or dishwasher cleaning of the removable Quiet Collar sink baffle described in its Complete manual. That permission applies to that part; it does not make every rubber guard dishwasher-safe.
Leave an integrated splash guard in place
With power disconnected, wipe the upper surface and reachable outer folds using the cleaning method allowed for the unit. Keep fingers above the opening. If the underside cannot be reached within the approved access, ask the manufacturer about its care method instead of pulling the guard free.
Food film around the opening may also need the separate stopper and sink-flange cleaning method.
Seat the guard securely before restoring power
Follow the part's required orientation and drying instructions. Moen's removable example goes in cup-shaped side first, with pressure on the outer edge until it is snug. InSinkErator's Complete manual prohibits operating its unit without the Quiet Collar baffle installed. Keep a loose, damaged, or incorrectly seated guard out of service until the correct part is secured.
A washed guard does not clear a jam or a blocked drain. Standing water, repeated backups, humming without grinding, leaks, tripped power, or a burnt smell need diagnosis. Stop using the unit and arrange the appropriate manufacturer support, appliance service, or plumbing help. Do not add cleaner to test whether a blockage will clear.
Splash-guard care questions
Can a fixed guard be pulled out for a more thorough wash?
No. A guard integrated into the mounting assembly stays installed for routine care. Confirm the design in the model's instructions and stop if an apparently removable part resists.
Can I put a removable splash guard in the dishwasher?
Only when the part's manufacturer permits it. InSinkErator allows this for the Quiet Collar baffle covered by its Complete manual. Use the care directions for your own guard and reinstall it securely before operating the disposal.