Garbage disposals are a staple in many modern kitchens, offering a convenient way to dispose of food waste. However, improper use can lead to clogs, damage, and costly repairs. Knowing what can and cannot go down your garbage disposal is essential for maintaining its functionality and extending its lifespan.
What Should Go Into the Garbage Disposal?
Garbage disposals are designed to handle a variety of food scraps, but not everything is suitable. Here are some items that are generally safe to put down your disposal:
Soft Foods: Items like fruits, vegetables, and small amounts of cooked meat are usually safe.
Non-fibrous Vegetables: Carrot peels, cucumber skins, and other non-fibrous vegetable scraps.
Small Bones: While not recommended frequently, small chicken or fish bones can be ground up.
Citrus Peels: These not only break down easily but also help to clean and deodorize the disposal.
What Shouldn't Go Into the Garbage Disposal?
Certain items can cause significant problems for your garbage disposal. Avoid putting the following down the drain:
Coffee Grounds: These can accumulate and form a sludge-like substance that clogs pipes.
Grease and Fat: These substances can solidify and cause blockages further down the plumbing system.
Fibrous Vegetables: Items like celery, onion skins, and asparagus can wrap around the blades and cause jams.
Pasta, Rice, and Bread: These foods expand with water and can clog the disposal and pipes.
Eggshells: Contrary to popular belief, eggshells can damage the disposal's impellers and create clogs.
Best Practices for Garbage Disposal Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your garbage disposal remains in good working condition. Here are some tips to help you maintain your appliance:
Use Cold Water: Always run cold water when using the disposal. Cold water solidifies any grease or fat, allowing it to be chopped up and flushed away.
Regular Usage: Even if you don't have food waste to dispose of, run your garbage disposal regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Clean with Ice and Citrus: Grinding ice cubes helps to clean the blades, while citrus peels can deodorize and freshen the disposal.
Avoid Overloading: Feed waste into the disposal gradually rather than all at once to prevent jams and clogs.
Expert Insights
Experts recommend avoiding certain items to prevent damage and maintain efficiency. "Even the most powerful disposal has limits to what it can handle," says Steve Moore of Moore Appliance Service. He advises using cold water and running the disposal for at least 15 seconds after turning it off to ensure all food particles are flushed down the drain.
Understanding what can and cannot go into your garbage disposal is crucial for its longevity and efficiency. By following these guidelines and maintaining your appliance properly, you can avoid common issues and enjoy the convenience of a well-functioning garbage disposal for years to come.
