Garbage Disposal - 5 Foods That Should Never Go Down the Drain

Discover the top 5 foods you should never put in your garage disposal to prevent costly repairs and maintain a functional sink.

Why it is important to be cautious with your garbage disposal this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time when many people gather with their loved ones to enjoy a delicious meal. However, it is important to be cautious with your garage disposal during this festive season. The increased amount of food waste can put a strain on your disposal system and lead to expensive repairs if not handled properly.

When you have a house full of guests and a mountain of dishes to clean, it can be tempting to just throw everything down the drain. But certain foods can cause serious damage to your garage disposal and clog your pipes, resulting in a costly and inconvenient plumbing emergency.

To avoid any Thanksgiving disasters, it is crucial to know which foods should never go down the drain. By being mindful of what you dispose of in your garbage disposal, you can maintain a functional sink and prevent unnecessary repairs.

1. Turkey Bones:

As tempting as it might be to let your garbage disposal handle those turkey bones, it's a recipe for disaster. Bones can dull the blades, damage the disposal, and create a plumbing nightmare. Instead, consider composting or discarding bones in the trash.

Greasy and oily foods

Greasy and oily foods should never be put in your garage disposal. These substances can coat the blades and pipes, causing them to become clogged and inefficient. They can also solidify and create blockages in your plumbing system, leading to backups and unpleasant odors.

Instead of dumping greasy and oily foods down the drain, it is best to wipe off excess grease with a paper towel and dispose of it in the trash. This simple step can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your garage disposal running smoothly.

2. Fibrous foods

Fibrous foods, such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins, should never be put in your garage disposal. These foods have long, stringy fibers that can wrap around the blades and cause them to jam. They can also create tangles in your pipes, leading to clogs and potential damage.

To dispose of fibrous foods, it is best to place them in the compost or throw them in the trash. This will prevent any issues with your garage disposal and ensure the proper functioning of your plumbing system.

3. Potato Peels:

Peeling potatoes for that perfect Thanksgiving mash? Don't send the peels down the garbage disposal. Potato peels are starchy and can create a thick paste, leading to clogs. Dispose of peels in the trash or compost to keep your disposal running smoothly.

Instead of putting starchy foods down the drain, it is recommended to dispose of them in the trash. This will help you maintain a functional sink and prevent any unnecessary repairs.

4. Grease and Fats:

Thanksgiving often involves cooking with oils and fats, but avoid pouring them down the drain. Grease and fats can solidify in the disposal and pipes, leading to stubborn clogs. Instead, let them cool and dispose of them in the trash.

5. Fruit pits & seeds

From pumpkin seeds to peach pits, hard seeds, and pits can damage your garbage disposal's blades. Take a moment to separate seeds and pits, placing them in the trash or compost, ensuring a smooth post-Thanksgiving cleanup.