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Things You Should Never Put Down the Garbage Disposal

Something that we may take for granted are garbage disposals. They come standard in most kitchen sinks, including in our Justice homes. They are extremely useful and seemingly indestructible. But even though garbage disposals are tough, there are some things that can cause them to function poorly or stop working altogether. Here are some things you should never put down your garbage disposal to keep it running smoothly.

Stone Fruit Pits

Some varieties of fruits are referred to as stone fruits. This is because the seed inside them is as hard as a stone. Common stone fruits that you may pick up occasionally are avocados, peaches, and nectarines. It is important that you do not throw the seed away down the garbage disposal because it is so rock hard. You may reason that the blades of the disposal will eventually wear it down, but this is not likely to be the case. What is more likely to happen is that the seed will wear down your blades and prohibit other items from smoothly traveling down the drainpipe. That is why it is best to just dispose of fruit pits in the trash instead.

Grease

Grease is one that you may be aware of already, but if not, allow us to be the first to tell you that you definitely should never pour grease down your garbage disposal. When grease cools off, it turns from a hot liquid into a slow moving solid. It coats and blocks your drainpipes which is something you definitely do not want. Since grease can be tricky to dispose of in its liquid state, you can simply pour the grease into a separate container and allow it to cool. Then you can easily throw it away. An old jar works great for this purpose.

Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are something that you may not think too much about. When dry, they are seemingly harmless. The trouble is that once they become brewed, they turn from a sandy texture to a sludgy substance. Similarly, to grease, sludgy coffee grounds make it difficult for water to flow properly through your drainpipes. Even if you run them through the garbage disposal blades, they will just come together again in your drainpipes. That’s why it is best to place used coffee grounds in the garbage or in your compost bin instead.

Generally, your garbage disposal can handle almost anything you throw at it. If you skip placing these common kitchen items down the drain, your disposal is sure to remain in good condition for many years to come.

By Justice Homes 12-15-2021