What can I put down my garbage disposal?

Your kitchen garbage disposal is a powerful tool—and though it might seem like it can take on anything you throw down the drain, you should proceed with caution. That’s because some food or substances can damage your disposal or still clog your kitchen sink pipes even after being ground up. In this blog, Martens Plumbing & Heating shares some of the items that are safe or even beneficial for your garbage disposal. Discover our best tips below—then call us with questions or for plumbing service at 262-363-7146.

Safe Items to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal

Any soft or liquid foods are fine to throw down your garbage disposal, but what other food substances are safe? Next time you’re on kitchen cleanup duty, ensure your garbage disposal stays in top working condition by limiting disposal to these items:

1. Citrus Rinds

Citrus rinds are not only safe to put down your garbage disposal, but they have the added benefit of naturally freshening and deodorizing the air. So next time you peel an orange, throw the scraps in your sink for a burst of freshness that can help neutralize other less-than-savory scents in your sink.

2. Small Fruit and Vegetable Scraps

Fruits and vegetables are porous substances that your garbage disposal can easily grind. However, avoid running them through in large pieces or whole to avoid clogs or other problems.

3. Small Pieces of Solid Foods

Most small chunks of food are safe to put down your garbage disposal. Be sure to avoid large chunks of vegetables or meat, as these items are more difficult to process and can put excess strain on your system.

4. Ice

Ice is safe to put in your garbage disposal. Try running it along with other foods to help loosen excess remnants from the blades.

Having doubts if a food or substance is safe to run through your disposal? Here’s a list of items that are never safe to put down your sink.

What Should You Do If Your Garbage Disposal Is Clogged?

Despite your best efforts, your garbage disposal might become clogged or even break down at some point. What should you do?

The first thing to remember is to keep your hands out of the disposal. If it suddenly turns back on, this could result in serious injury. Instead, use an item like a wooden spoon to try and dislodge whatever’s causing the problem. If you’re unable to solve the issue yourself, it’s time to call in the experts at Martens Plumbing.

Martens – Your Plumbing Experts

It doesn’t matter if you have a garbage disposal problem or a plumbing emergency—Martens has your home plumbing taken care of. Our licensed and bonded plumbers are committed to getting your repair fixed right the very first time. Contact us today for quick and reliable plumbing services.