Garbage Disposal: Dos and Don'ts

Having a garbage disposal in your kitchen can be a convenient appliance for disposing of food waste. However, to ensure its smooth operation and avoid any issues, it's important to follow these dos and maintain your garbage disposal:

Dos

1. Regularly clean your garbage disposal

Keeping your garbage disposal clean is essential for eliminating any unpleasant odors. One simple method is to pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the disposal, followed by flushing it with cold water. This will help remove any build-up and keep the disposal fresh.

2. Use cold water when operating the garbage disposal

Cold water is beneficial for the functioning of your garbage disposal. It helps solidify oils and fats, making them easier to be chopped and disposed of. Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to ensure smooth operation.

3. Cut larger food waste into smaller pieces before disposing

To prevent overloading and potential clogging of your garbage disposal, make sure to cut larger food items into smaller, manageable pieces. This allows the disposal unit to break down the waste more efficiently, reducing the risk of jams and malfunctions.

4. Use citrus peels to freshen up the garbage disposal

If you notice any lingering odors in your garbage disposal, a simple and natural way to freshen it up is by grinding citrus peels. The natural oils in the peels help combat unpleasant smells, leaving your disposal smelling clean and fresh.

5. Run cold water for 15 seconds after the disposal is turned off

Once you have finished using the garbage disposal, it's important to continue running cold water for around 15 seconds. This helps flush out any remaining food particles and ensures the disposal is thoroughly cleaned.

6. Consult the user manual for recommended maintenance practices

Each garbage disposal unit may have specific maintenance requirements. It's always wise to consult the user manual provided with your garbage disposal to understand the recommended maintenance practices. This will help you keep the disposal working efficiently for years to come.

7. Dispose of food waste gradually, rather than all at once

Avoid overwhelming your garbage disposal by gradually feeding it small amounts of food waste. Trying to dispose of large volumes of waste all at once can strain the unit and increase the chances of clogs or jams. Feed the disposal in small increments, allowing it to process the waste effectively.

8. Use a plunger or a wrench if the garbage disposal gets jammed

In case your garbage disposal gets jammed, refrain from using your hands to remove any objects. Instead, use a plunger or a wrench to gently dislodge the obstruction. Applying excessive force or using your hands can risk injury or cause damage to the disposal unit.

Don'ts

While there are important things to do to maintain your garbage disposal, there are also some crucial don'ts to be aware of in order to keep it running smoothly:

1. Don't put non-food items into the garbage disposal

It's essential to remember that the garbage disposal is designed specifically for processing food waste. Never put non-food items such as plastic, paper, or metal into the disposal, as they can cause damage to the blades and motor, leading to costly repairs.

2. Don't pour grease, oil, or fat down the disposal

Grease, oil, and fat solidify when they cool, leading to clogs and blockages in your garbage disposal and plumbing system. Avoid pouring these substances down the drain, as they can coat the blades and impede their proper functioning.

3. Don't use hot water when operating the garbage disposal

Although hot water may seem like a good choice for cleaning, it can have adverse effects on your garbage disposal. Hot water can melt fats, causing them to cling to the disposal pipes and eventually clog the system. Stick to using cold water instead.

4. Don't overload the garbage disposal with too much food waste

It's important to avoid overwhelming your garbage disposal by overloading it with excessive amounts of food waste. This can result in poor performance, clogging, and potential damage to the disposal unit. Feed the disposal gradually to ensure effective processing.

5. Don't use harsh chemicals to clean the garbage disposal

While cleaning your garbage disposal is crucial, avoid using harsh chemicals. These can corrode the disposal's components and harm the environment when disposed of. Stick to natural cleaning methods, such as using vinegar and baking soda, as mentioned earlier.

6. Don't dispose of hard or fibrous foods like bones or corn husks

Hard and fibrous food items like bones, corn husks, and fruit pits should never be disposed of in the garbage disposal. These can damage the blades, causing them to become dull or break. Instead, throw them away in the regular trash.

7. Don't turn off the disposal right after grinding food waste

After disposing of food waste, allow the garbage disposal to run for a little longer. This ensures that any remaining particles are flushed out, reducing the risk of lingering odors or potential clogs. So, don't turn it off immediately after grinding.

8. Don't use your hands to remove objects from the garbage disposal

If something gets stuck or jammed in your garbage disposal, never attempt to remove it with your hands. The blades can be sharp and cause injuries. Instead, use pliers or tongs to safely retrieve the object, or consult a professional if needed.

9. Don't run the disposal without any water

Always ensure there is an adequate amount of water running while operating the garbage disposal. Running it without water can overload the motor and result in it burning out. Water is necessary to help move the waste smoothly through the system.

10. Don't put expandable foods like rice or pasta into the garbage disposal

Expandable foods like rice and pasta can absorb water and expand, leading to clogs in your garbage disposal and pipes. Avoid letting these types of foods go down the disposal, as they can cause blockages over time.

By following these dos and don'ts, you can keep your garbage disposal in optimal condition, preventing clogs, unpleasant odors, and costly repairs. Proper maintenance and responsible usage will ensure that your garbage disposal remains a valuable and trouble-free asset in your kitchen for years to come!