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what can i put down the garbage disposal

what can i put down the garbage disposal

3 min read 05-02-2025
what can i put down the garbage disposal

Meta Description: Unsure what you can and can't put down your garbage disposal? This comprehensive guide tackles everything from coffee grounds and eggshells to tougher items like bones and grease. Learn how to keep your disposal running smoothly and avoid costly repairs! Discover safe disposal practices, troubleshooting tips, and what to absolutely avoid. Maximize your garbage disposal's lifespan with our expert advice.

What to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal: A Safe List

Many food scraps can safely go down your garbage disposal, saving you time and reducing landfill waste. However, knowing what to put down is crucial for its longevity.

Safe Garbage Disposal Items:

  • Soft Fruits and Vegetables: Banana peels, melon rinds, berries, and soft vegetables like cooked carrots or potatoes are generally okay. Always run cold water while disposing.
  • Coffee Grounds: These can actually help sharpen the blades. Just don't overload the disposal.
  • Eggshells: These add calcium and can help with cleaning. Grind them up thoroughly.
  • Pasta: Cooked pasta breaks down easily.
  • Rice: Cooked rice is also fine, but avoid uncooked rice which can expand.
  • Small Bones: Small, soft bones from fish or chicken can usually be handled (but proceed with caution – see below).

Tips for Using Your Garbage Disposal Safely:

  • Cold Water is Key: Always run cold water before, during, and after using your garbage disposal. Cold water helps flush away food particles and prevents grease from solidifying.
  • Small Batches: Avoid overloading the disposal with too much food waste at once. Work in small batches for optimal grinding.
  • Use Ice Cubes: Periodically run ice cubes through the disposal to help sharpen the blades and remove stuck-on food.

What NOT to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal:

Some items can severely damage your garbage disposal, leading to costly repairs or complete replacement. Avoid these at all costs:

  • Grease and Oils: These solidify and clog pipes. Pour grease into a container and dispose of it properly.
  • Fibrous Vegetables: Celery, artichoke hearts, and asparagus are tough and can jam the blades. Cut them into smaller pieces if you must.
  • Large Bones: Large bones, especially from meat, are far too tough for most disposals.
  • Starchy Foods: Uncooked pasta or rice can expand and clog your pipes. These should be composted instead.
  • Hard Shells: Nutshells, corn husks, and other hard materials are a surefire way to damage your garbage disposal.
  • Non-food Items: Never put anything non-food down your garbage disposal! This includes things like plastic, metal, glass, and paper.
  • Potato Peels: These can be tough on blades and can clog your drain.
  • Dairy Products: Dairy can create sticky build-ups and attract pests.

Troubleshooting Your Garbage Disposal:

If your garbage disposal is making unusual noises, smells bad, or isn't working properly, here are some simple troubleshooting steps:

1. Check for clogs: Look for any visible obstructions. 2. Use the reset button: Most disposals have a reset button, usually located on the bottom. 3. Try running ice and water: This can help dislodge any minor clogs. 4. Use a disposal wrench: If the disposal is completely jammed, you may need a disposal wrench to remove the obstruction. 5. Call a plumber: If the problem persists, it's best to contact a qualified plumber.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Garbage Disposals:

Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?

A: It's a good idea to flush your disposal with cold water and ice cubes once a week. A deeper clean with baking soda and vinegar should be done monthly.

Q: What is the best way to dispose of grease?

A: Let grease cool completely. Then, pour it into a sealed container and throw it away with the regular trash. You can also find grease recycling programs in some areas.

Q: Can I put coffee filters down the garbage disposal?

A: No, coffee filters are not biodegradable and can easily clog your drain. Dispose of them in the trash.

By following these guidelines, you can keep your garbage disposal running smoothly for years to come. Remember, prevention is key! Avoiding problematic items will save you time, money, and frustration. If you are ever unsure if something is safe, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it in the trash.

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