12 Things You Should NEVER Put into Your Garbage Disposal
Plumbers will tell you there are several things you should never put into your garbage disposal unless you want a clogged sink or an expensive repair bill. To keep your disposal running smoothly, avoid these things:
1. Grease, Fat, and Oil
These substances solidify inside pipes, leading to clogs and foul odors over time. Instead, pour grease into a container, let it cool, and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Coffee Grounds
Despite their fine texture, coffee grounds clump together when wet, creating a sludge-like paste that can clog drains. It’s better to compost them or throw them in the trash.
3. Eggshells
The thin membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the disposal’s blades, while the shell itself turns into gritty particles that contribute to clogs.
4. Pasta, Rice, and Oatmeal
These foods expand with water, turning into a sticky, starchy mess that can gum up the disposal and pipes.
5. Potato Peels
Starchy potato peels can turn into a thick paste inside the disposal, making it difficult for water to flow properly.
6. Fibrous Vegetables (Celery, Corn Husks, Onion Skins, Artichokes, Asparagus, etc.)
The stringy fibers wrap around the blades and can jam the motor, leading to breakdowns.
7. Bones
Garbage disposals are not designed to grind up bones properly. They can dull or break the blades and jam the motor.
8. Fruit Pits and Seeds
Hard pits from avocados, peaches, cherries, and other fruits are too tough for a disposal to break down. They can damage the blades or just spin around without getting processed.
9. Nuts
Nuts, especially peanuts, turn into a peanut butter-like paste when ground up, which can clog pipes and gum up the disposal.
10. Seafood Shells (Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Clams, Oysters, etc.)
These shells are too hard for disposal blades and can jam the system while leaving behind a terrible smell if they get stuck.
11. Non-Food Items (Plastic, Paper, Metal, Glass, etc.)
Items like twist ties, sponges, wrappers, or utensils can seriously damage your disposal and lead to costly repairs.
12. Harsh Chemicals (Bleach, Drain Cleaners, or Paints)
These chemicals can erode your pipes, damage the disposal’s components, and even create toxic fumes.
Think of your garbage disposal as a helper, not a superhero—it can handle some food scraps, but not everything you throw at it. When in doubt, toss it in the trash or compost it instead. A little caution now saves you from a big plumbing headache later
By continuing with your order, you acknowledge and agree to the following: