Grease and oil: Grease, oil, and fats should never be poured down the sink or placed in a disposal. These substances can solidify in the pipes, causing blockages and potential damage to the disposal itself. Instead, it’s advisable to let grease and oil solidify and dispose of them in the regular trash.
Fibrous or stringy materials: Foods with fibrous or stringy textures, such as celery, corn husks, onion skins, and artichokes, should not be put in a sink disposal. These materials can wrap around the blades or impeller, leading to clogs and possible motor damage.
Large bones and pits: Sink disposals are generally not equipped to handle large bones or pits from fruits like peaches or avocados. These hard substances can damage the blades or jam the disposal, potentially requiring expensive repairs.
Non-food waste: It’s important to remember that sink disposals are designed specifically for food waste. Items like plastic, metal, glass, paper, and other non-food materials should never be put in a sink disposal. These items can damage the blades, causing the disposal to malfunction or break.
Maintaining a healthy sink disposal
To keep your sink disposal in good working condition and avoid clogs, it’s crucial to follow a few key tips:
- Use cold water: Always run cold water while operating the disposal. This helps solidify any grease or oil, making it easier to flush through the plumbing system.
- Avoid overloading: It’s best to feed food waste into the disposal in small amounts, allowing it to be broken down efficiently. Overloading the disposal can lead to jams and other issues.
- Clean regularly: To prevent odors and buildup, clean your disposal regularly using natural cleaning methods such as vinegar and baking soda or commercial disposal cleaning products.
- Be cautious with chemical cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners in the disposal, as they can damage the blades and other components. Stick to natural cleaning methods instead.
While sink disposals offer a convenient way to dispose of food waste, they are not designed to handle all types of waste. By understanding what can and cannot go in a sink disposal, you can maintain its functionality and prevent potential damage and clogs in your plumbing system. Remember to use your disposal responsibly and follow proper maintenance guidelines to enjoy its benefits for years to come.