Stick to soft foods, small bones, and most fruit and vegetable scraps.
- Avoid fibrous items, grease, and large pits to prevent damage.
- Always run cold water before, during, and after grinding.
- Regular cleaning with ice and citrus keeps the unit fresh and functional.
What Foods Are Safe to Put in a Garbage Disposal?
Most soft foods are safe to grind. Examples include cooked pasta, rice, and small bones from fish or chicken. Citrus peels can freshen the unit. Eggshells, despite myths, are fine in small amounts. They help clean the grinding chamber. Always use cold water to solidify any fats. This prevents grease buildup in pipes. According to the listing for the InSinkErator Evolution Compact, it handles most everyday scraps. But even the best disposer has limits.
What Should You Never Put Down a Garbage Disposal?
Avoid fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and artichokes. These can wrap around the blades. Grease and oil should go in the trash, not the sink. Large bones and pits can damage the motor. Coffee grounds can accumulate and cause clogs. Starchy foods like potato peels can turn into a paste. Never put non-food items down the disposal. This includes utensils, glass, or plastic. These can break the unit or cause injury.
How to Use a Garbage Disposal Properly
Turn on cold water before starting the disposal. Feed food gradually, not all at once. Let the water run for 15 seconds after grinding. This flushes waste through the pipes. Use the disposal regularly to prevent rust and corrosion. For odors, grind citrus peels or baking soda. Never use chemical drain cleaners; they can damage the unit. According to the Waste King L-8000 manual, these steps extend its lifespan.
Best Garbage Disposals for Different Households
For large families, a high-horsepower model like the InSinkErator Evolution Excel handles heavy use. Budget-conscious buyers might choose the Waste King 1/2 HP. It offers reliable performance at a lower cost. If you have a septic system, look for a model with a bio-shield, like the Moen GX50. For quiet operation, the InSinkErator Badger 5 is known for its sound insulation. Each unit has specific features, so match them to your needs.
Can You Put Certain Foods in a Garbage Disposal?
Yes, but with caution. Small bones, like from chicken wings, are safe. Fish bones are also fine. Fruit pits, however, should be avoided. Avocado pits are too hard and can damage blades. Onion skins are fibrous and should be thrown away. Cooked meat scraps are okay, but raw meat can harbor bacteria. Always run water to help move waste. When in doubt, throw it in the trash.