Keeping Your Kitchen Sink Flowing - Garbage Disposal Dos and Don’ts

October 2024

Your sink is integral to your kitchen, and a functioning garbage disposal is essential for a clean and sanitary environment. However, several things should never make their way into your disposal. To avoid clogs, unpleasant odors, and expensive repairs, the Werley team has put together a list of dos and don’ts to maintain the functionality of your garbage disposal.

The Dos

First, let’s talk about a few things you can do to keep your disposal in tip-top shape:

• Cold Water: Always use cold water when running your disposal.

• Don’t Overload: Don't put more than a handful of food waste into the disposal at a time. If you have a lot of waste, grind it up gradually. 

• Clean Regularly: Clean your disposal at least once a month with a cleaner or a homemade mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and hot water. 

• Grind Ice: You can grind ice to sharpen the blades and remove built-up grease and grime. 

• Professional Help: If you encounter persistent clogs or issues, contact Werley for expert assistance.

The Don'ts

As mentioned above, not all food waste is suitable for your disposal. Here are a few things you should never put down your garbage disposal: 

• Grease and Cooking Oil: These solidify as they cool, leading to blockages. Dispose of them in a separate container and throw them in the trash.

• Fibrous Foods: Celery, onion skins, corn husks, and artichokes can tangle around the disposal blades. Opt for composting or trash disposal.

• Coffee Grounds: Coffee grounds can accumulate and create a sludgy mess. Dispose of them in the trash or use them in your garden.

• Eggshells: Eggshells can stick to the sides of your pipes. Dispose of them in the trash or add them to your compost pile.

• Potato Peels: Potato peels contain starch that can become a gluey paste. Dispose of them in the trash or compost them.

• Bones and Fruit Pits: These hard objects can damage disposal blades. Throw them in the trash or compost them.

• Pasta and Rice: These starchy foods can expand and cause clogs. Avoid rinsing them down the drain.

• Chemical Drain Cleaners: These can damage your pipes and disposal unit. Opt for natural alternatives or call a professional plumber for drainage problems.

• Non-Food Items: Obviously, you should avoid putting bottle caps, rubber bands, plastic utensils, or glass down the disposal.

Why Choose Werely for Your Plumbing Needs?

By avoiding putting these items into your disposal, you can prevent clogs and keep your drains clean and clear. If you experience persistent clogs, leaks, backups, or other plumbing problems, call (610) 776-9797 to schedule a garbage disposal replacement or repair. Our technicians will diagnose the issue, fix it efficiently, and ensure your kitchen is back to running smoothly.