A garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance, but it's not designed to handle everything. Understanding what your disposal can and can't process will help you avoid clogs, jams, and premature wear.
How Garbage Disposals Work
Contrary to popular belief, garbage disposals don't have sharp blades that chop up food. Instead, they use impellers (blunt metal teeth) mounted on a spinning plate to force food against a stationary grind ring, breaking it into tiny particles that wash down the drain. This design handles soft foods well but struggles with certain materials.
What You CAN Put in the Disposal
Most soft food scraps are fine: fruit scraps (not pits), vegetable peelings, small amounts of cooked meat, bread, and similar items. Citrus peels are actually beneficial—they help clean the disposal and leave it smelling fresh. Small bones from fish or chicken are generally okay and can help clean the grinding elements.
What You Should NEVER Put in the Disposal
Grease, oil, and fat: These solidify in pipes and cause clogs. Fibrous vegetables: Celery, asparagus, corn husks, and artichokes can wrap around the grinding mechanism. Starchy foods: Pasta, rice, and potato peels can form a thick paste that clogs drains. Coffee grounds: They accumulate in pipes over time. Eggshells: Despite myths, they don't sharpen anything and can contribute to clogs. Hard items: Bones larger than fish bones, fruit pits, and shells can damage or jam the disposal.
Best Practices for Using Your Disposal
Always run cold water before, during, and for 15-20 seconds after using the disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease so it can be chopped up rather than coating the pipes. Feed food gradually rather than stuffing the disposal. Run the disposal regularly, even if you don't have food to grind—this keeps parts moving and prevents rust and corrosion.
Keeping It Clean and Fresh
To clean your disposal and eliminate odors, grind ice cubes to knock off buildup, then follow with citrus peels for freshness. You can also pour a half cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, let it fizz for a few minutes, then flush with hot water. Never use chemical drain cleaners in a disposal.
When to Call for Help
If your disposal hums but doesn't spin, jams frequently, leaks, or makes unusual grinding noises, it's time to call a professional. Attempting to fix electrical or mechanical issues yourself can be dangerous and may void any warranty.