Garbage disposals are a convenient addition to many kitchens, helping to cut down on food waste and keep your sink area clean. However, many homeowners don’t realize that garbage disposals aren’t meant to handle everything. Misusing them can lead to clogs, damage or costly repairs. Understanding what you can and can’t put down your garbage disposal will keep it running smoothly for years.
The team at AmeriSpec Inspection Services has put together some helpful guidance on how to best care for your disposal.
What You Should Avoid Putting in Garbage Disposals
1. Grease and Oils
Never pour grease, cooking oil or fatty substances into your disposal. These cool and solidify inside the pipes, creating stubborn clogs.
2. Starchy Foods
Items like rice, pasta or potatoes expand when they absorb water. Once inside the disposal and pipes, they can quickly form blockages.
3. Hard or Fibrous Materials
Chicken bones, seeds, popcorn kernels and fibrous vegetable peels (like celery or corn husks) are too tough for garbage disposals. These items can jam the blades or cause the motor to lock up.
4. Coffee Grounds and Eggshells
Though they may seem harmless, both can build up in the pipes over time. Eggshell membranes can wrap around disposal blades, while coffee grounds can form dense clumps that block drains.
What You Can Safely Put in Garbage Disposals
1. Small Food Scraps
Leftover crumbs or small scraps from rinsing plates are fine. However, large quantities of food should be scraped into the trash first.
2. Soft Foods
Most soft, non-fibrous foods like cooked vegetables or fruit scraps can safely go down. Just remember moderation is key.
3. Cold Water
Always run cold water while using the disposal and for a few seconds afterward to flush food through the system. Cold water helps solidify any remaining fats so they can be chopped up instead of coating the pipes.
Keeping Garbage Disposals Clean
Regular cleaning keeps your disposal fresh and functional. Run a handful of ice cubes with a little dish soap to knock off residue. You can also pour in vinegar and baking soda for a natural deodorizing cleanse.
Garbage disposals are handy tools, but they require proper care. Avoiding problem foods, scraping plates into the trash first and cleaning regularly will extend the life of your unit and prevent plumbing headaches.
For more helpful home maintenance tips, or to schedule a professional inspection, reach out to AmeriSpec Inspection Services. Give us a call today at 952-854-5110 or contact us!
