What To Avoid Putting Down the Garbage Disposal

When it comes to your kitchen, the garbage disposal is an essential tool for disposing of food waste. However, not everything can go down the disposal without causing problems. In fact, putting the wrong things down the garbage disposal can lead to clogs, damage to the unit, and even costly repairs. To avoid these issues and keep your garbage disposal running smoothly, here are some key items you should never put down it.

1. Grease and Oils

Greasy substances like cooking oil, butter, or bacon fat may seem harmless enough to go down the disposal, but they can actually cause major problems. When grease and oils cool down in your pipes, they solidify and create a sticky buildup that can clog your disposal or even cause your pipes to back up.

2. Fibrous Foods

Foods like celery, asparagus, and corn husks may seem like harmless enough items to put down the garbage disposal, but they can actually wrap around the blades and cause them to jam. This can lead to a malfunctioning disposal or even damage to the motor.

3. Eggshells

Many people believe that eggshells are good for sharpening the blades of their disposal, but in reality, they do more harm than good. The thin membrane inside the eggshell can stick to other food particles and create a clog in your pipes.

4. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds may seem small and innocuous enough, but when mixed with water they can form a thick paste that can clog your pipes and cause damage to your disposal. It’s best to throw coffee grounds in the trash or use them for composting.

5. Pasta and Rice

These starchy foods may seem harmless, but when they come into contact with water they can expand and create a gummy paste that can clog your disposal and pipes.

7. Bones

It may be tempting to toss chicken or fish bones down the disposal, but they can actually damage the blades and motor of your disposal. It’s best to dispose of them in the trash.

8. Fibrous Fruits and Vegetables

Fibrous fruits and vegetables such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins should not be put into your garbage disposal. They can wrap around the blades and cause damage or clog the pipes.

10. Non-Food Items

It may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that non-food items, or manufactured items like paper towels or trash bags.