A garbage disposal can be a convenient and efficient way to dispose of food waste, but it's essential to know what you can and cannot put down it. Here's a list of what you can safely put down a garbage disposal:

What You Can Put Down a Garbage Disposal

1. Soft food scraps: Small scraps of fruits and vegetables, such as peels and cores, can be safely put down a garbage disposal.

2. Cooked food scraps: Cooked food scraps such as small pieces of meat or fish, eggshells, and small amounts of pasta or rice can be ground up by a garbage disposal.

3. Ice cubes: Ice cubes can help to sharpen the blades and clean the disposal's walls, and they won't damage the unit.

4. Citrus fruits: Lemons, limes, and oranges can be used to freshen up your disposal's smell and clean the blades.

5. Dish soap: A small amount of dish soap can be added to the disposal to help break down grease and oil.

What You Should Not Put Down a Garbage Disposal

1. Hard objects: Hard objects such as bones, pits, and seeds can damage the disposal's blades and cause it to malfunction.

2. Fats, oils, and grease: Fats, oils, and grease can solidify in the disposal and clog the drain and pipes.

3. Fibrous foods: Fibrous foods such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins can get tangled in the blades and cause the disposal to jam.

4. Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds can accumulate in the pipes and cause blockages.

5. Non-food items: Non-food items such as plastics, metals, and paper should never be put down a garbage disposal.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garbage Disposals

Q: Do all sinks have garbage disposals?

A: No, not all sinks have garbage disposals. It depends on the plumbing system and whether the sink was designed for a garbage disposal.

Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?

A: It's recommended to clean your garbage disposal once a week by grinding up ice cubes and citrus fruit.

Q: Can I put bleach down my garbage disposal?

A: No, bleach should not be put down a garbage disposal as it can corrode the metal parts and cause damage.

Conclusion

Knowing what you can and cannot put down a garbage disposal is essential to avoid damage and malfunctions. By following the guidelines above and using your disposal correctly, you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a garbage disposal while keeping your plumbing system and environment safe.