Garbage disposals are a convenient kitchen appliance, designed to make cleaning up after meals much easier. However, many people unknowingly misuse their disposals, leading to clogs, damage, and costly repairs. Understanding what should and shouldn’t go down the disposal is crucial for maintaining its functionality and longevity.
While garbage disposals can handle a variety of food scraps, they are not invincible. Certain items can cause serious issues, from clogs to mechanical failures. To keep your disposal running smoothly, it’s important to know which items to avoid putting down the drain. Here are ten things you should never put in your garbage disposal.
1. Eggshells: A Common Misconception
Many people believe that eggshells can help sharpen the blades of a garbage disposal, but this is a myth. Eggshells can actually cause more harm than good. The thin membrane inside the shell can wrap around the disposal’s blades, leading to clogs and reduced efficiency. Additionally, the gritty texture of crushed eggshells can accumulate in pipes, contributing to blockages over time.
2. Potato Peels: A Sticky Situation
Potato peels might seem harmless, but they can create a starchy paste that clogs pipes and disposals. When ground up, the peels release starch, which can turn into a glue-like substance. This sticky residue can coat the blades and pipes, leading to clogs and reduced performance. It’s best to dispose of potato peels in the trash or compost bin.
3. Coffee Grounds: Not as Harmless as They Seem
Coffee grounds are often thought to be harmless, but they can accumulate in pipes and lead to clogs. When dumped down the disposal, coffee grounds form a dense, thick paste that can easily block drains. Instead of putting them in the disposal, consider using coffee grounds as a natural deodorizer or adding them to your compost pile.
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