One of the most common questions homeowners have about their garbage disposals is whether it is safe to put food waste down the unit. There seems to be some confusion and debate surrounding this topic, as some people believe that garbage disposals can handle any food scraps, while others believe certain foods should never go down the drain. In this article, we will explore the dos and don’ts of using a garbage disposal for disposing of food waste, and provide some helpful tips to ensure the smooth operation of your unit.
Understanding How Garbage Disposals Work
Before delving into what can and cannot be placed in a garbage disposal, it is important to have a basic understanding of how these units operate. Garbage disposals are installed under the kitchen sink and are designed to shred food waste into small pieces that can pass through the plumbing system. They typically consist of a motor, grinding chamber, and spinning blades or impellers that break down the waste.
The Dos: Safe Food Waste for Your Garbage Disposal
- Soft Food Scraps: Garbage disposals work best with soft and moist food scraps. These include leftover cooked vegetables, fruit peels, cooked pasta or rice, and small amounts of leftover meat or fish. The disposal can easily grind these items and flush them down the drain with water.
- Citrus Peels: Citrus peels, such as those from lemons, oranges, and limes, can be safely put into the garbage disposal. Not only do they help freshen up the unit’s odor, but their acidic nature can also help clean and remove debris from the blades.
- Small Bones: While some may worry about throwing bones down the garbage disposal, small bones like fish or chicken bones are generally safe to dispose of. These will be ground into tiny pieces, reducing the risk of clogging or damaging the disposal.
The Don’ts: Foods to Avoid in Your Garbage Disposal
- Hard and Fibrous Foods: Avoid placing hard items like bones, unpopped popcorn kernels, or shells (such as eggshells or seafood shells) into your garbage disposal. Additionally, fibrous foods like corn husks, onion skins, and celery can wrap around the blades, impairing their ability to function properly.
- Grease, Oil, and Fat: Fatty substances should never go down the drain, as they solidify and can clog up both the garbage disposal and the plumbing system. Dispose of grease, oil, and fat properly by collecting them in a container and discarding them in the trash.
- Large Quantities of Food: Even though garbage disposals are designed to handle food waste, it is important not to overload them with large quantities of food at once. Feeding the disposal small amounts of food waste at a time, and allowing it to fully process before adding more, will prevent strain on the blades and help prevent clogs.
Tips for Optimal Garbage Disposal Use
- Run Cold Water: Always run a strong stream of cold water when using your garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify greasy or oily substances, making them easier to chop and flush away.
- Use for Cleaning: Besides disposing of food waste, garbage disposals are also useful for cleaning. Ice cubes can be ground to freshen up the unit, while a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can help eliminate odors and clear away debris.
- Regular Maintenance: To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your garbage disposal, it is essential to perform regular maintenance. This includes sharpening the blades, cleaning the grinding chamber, and checking for leaks. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional if needed.
While garbage disposals are designed to handle food waste, it is crucial to use them correctly to avoid clogs and damage. Soft and moist food scraps are generally safe to dispose of, whereas hard or fibrous foods and fatty substances should be discarded through alternative means. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this article, you can maximize the lifespan of your garbage disposal and keep your kitchen clean and clog-free.