To avoid clogs, foul odors, and damage to your garbage disposal, it’s important to know what foods and substances should never go down the drain. Even though garbage disposals are designed to handle food scraps, certain items can cause serious issues if not disposed of properly.
1. Stringy and Fibrous Foods
Vegetables like celery, artichokes, asparagus, and even onion skins have fibrous strings that can wrap around the disposal blades, causing them to jam. These materials are difficult for the grinding mechanism to process and can lead to clogs or motor strain.
Tip: If you must dispose of these foods, cut them into very small pieces and flush them down with plenty of cold water to reduce the risk of damage.
2. Grease and Fats
Grease, oils, and fats may go down the disposal easily, but they solidify as they cool, forming a sticky residue that clogs pipes and coats disposal blades. Over time, this buildup can lead to blockages and unpleasant odors in your kitchen.
Alternative: Pour grease into a disposable container or let it cool and scrape it into the trash. You can also wipe down pans with a paper towel before washing.
3. Bones
Bones, whether large or small, are too hard for garbage disposals to handle. They can damage the grinding wheel and cause your disposal to jam, leading to expensive repairs or replacement.
Tip: Dispose of bones in the trash or compost them if they’re small and compostable.
4. Coffee Grounds
While they might seem harmless, coffee grounds tend to clump together inside pipes, creating sludge that contributes to clogs over time.
Tip: Add coffee grounds to your compost pile or dispose of them in the trash for a more environmentally friendly option.
5. Eggshells
Eggshells are often mistaken as disposal-friendly, but their membranes can wrap around the blades, while the shell fragments contribute to buildup in pipes.
Alternative: Compost eggshells to repurpose them as a nutrient-rich additive for your garden.
Maintain Your Garbage Disposal with ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric
Garbage disposals are convenient, but improper use can lead to clogs, jams, and costly repairs. At ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric, we specialize in helping homeowners maintain, repair, and replace garbage disposals. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn clog or need expert advice, our licensed technicians are here to help.
We’ve proudly served the Chicagoland area for over 75 years, from the northwest suburbs to downtown. Our commitment to exceptional service and customer satisfaction makes us the trusted choice for all your plumbing, sewer, heating, cooling, and electrical needs.
Find the Nearest Location and Call Us Today!
Scroll down the page to find the location nearest you and give us a call. Don’t let a clogged garbage disposal disrupt your home. Contact ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric today for fast, reliable service. Let us keep your kitchen running smoothly!
