4. Grease and Oil: A Slippery Slope
Pouring grease and oil down the disposal is a common mistake that can lead to serious plumbing issues. As grease cools, it solidifies, coating the inside of pipes and creating blockages. This can lead to slow drains and even complete clogs. To dispose of grease and oil properly, let them cool and solidify, then throw them in the trash.
5. Pasta and Rice: Expanding Problems
Pasta and rice may seem harmless, but they can cause significant problems when put in a garbage disposal. These foods expand when exposed to water, even after being cooked. As they swell, they can easily clog pipes and cause backups. It’s best to dispose of leftover pasta and rice in the trash to avoid these issues.
6. Bones: Too Tough to Handle
While some disposals are advertised as being able to handle small bones, it’s generally not a good idea to put bones down the disposal. Bones are hard and can damage the blades, leading to costly repairs. Even if the bones are ground up, they can still contribute to clogs in the pipes. It’s best to dispose of bones in the trash.
7. Fibrous Vegetables: Tangled Troubles
Fibrous vegetables like celery, asparagus, and corn husks can cause problems for garbage disposals. The long fibers can wrap around the blades, causing jams and reducing efficiency. These fibers can also contribute to clogs in the pipes. To avoid these issues, dispose of fibrous vegetables in the trash or compost bin.
8. Fruit Pits and Seeds: Small but Mighty
Fruit pits and seeds may be small, but they are incredibly hard and can damage the disposal’s blades. Even if they don’t cause immediate damage, they can contribute to clogs in the pipes. It’s best to dispose of fruit pits and seeds in the trash to avoid any potential issues.
9. Nuts and Shells: Hard to Grind
Nuts and shells are tough and can be difficult for a garbage disposal to grind up. They can damage the blades and contribute to clogs in the pipes. Additionally, the oils in nuts can coat the blades and pipes, leading to further issues. It’s best to dispose of nuts and shells in the trash.
10. Non-Food Items: A Recipe for Disaster
Non-food items should never be put in a garbage disposal. These items can cause serious damage to the blades and motor, leading to costly repairs. Items like plastic, metal, and paper can also contribute to clogs in the pipes. Always dispose of non-food items in the trash.
11. Onion Skins: A Layered Issue
Onion skins can cause problems for garbage disposals due to their thin, papery layers. These layers can wrap around the blades, causing jams and reducing efficiency. Additionally, the skins can contribute to clogs in the pipes. It’s best to dispose of onion skins in the trash or compost bin.
