Your Garbage Disposal Isn’t a Trash Can—Here’s What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Put in It

Let’s face it—a Garbage disposal do’s and don’ts makes kitchen cleanup a whole lot easier. But it’s not a magic machine that can handle anything you toss in. Knowing what’s safe (and what’s not) can save you from clogs, foul smells, or a broken unit. You May Also Like: Traditional tubs guide.

Recently, plumbing expert Richard Trethewey from Ask This Old House walked through the do’s and don’ts of garbage disposers, showing the differences between the everyday Badger 1 Garbage Disposal and the quieter, more powerful InSinkErator Evolution Excel. Both are great, but only if you treat them right. For expert installation or troubleshooting, contact a trusted Plumber Near Me to ensure everything runs smoothly.

What’s Okay to Put Down the Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal is built to handle small food scraps—not full meals. Here are the things it can safely grind up:

• Soft fruits and veggies like banana peels, cucumber ends, or apple cores
• Citrus rinds – great for both cleaning and smell control
• Leftover cooked meat scraps in moderation
• Cold water – always run it before and after use
• Tiny amounts of coffee grounds – though it’s better to compost

Cold water is a must. It helps grease stay solid and move through the system instead of sticking to your pipes.

What Should Never Go Down the Disposal

Here’s where things get tricky. Some items might seem harmless but can seriously damage your unit or clog your pipes:

• Grease, oil, or fat – they solidify and block drains
• Starchy foods like rice, pasta, or potato peels – they expand and turn gummy
• Eggshells – they can jam blades and clog pipes
• Stringy veggies like celery or corn husks – they wrap around the blades
• Bones or seafood shells – way too hard to grind

These don’t just hurt your disposal—they can mess up your whole plumbing system.

A Quick Nod to Pop Culture

When talking trash—literally—it’s hard not to chuckle at the Garbage Pail Kids. These oddball trading cards from the ‘80s made trash fun before kitchen disposals even got trendy. And yes, someone even created a toy called the Trump Garbage Truck—but no, it won’t help with dinner cleanup.

Which Garbage Disposal Should You Use?

If you’re shopping for one, here are two top choices:

• Badger 1 Garbage Disposal – budget-friendly and great for light use
• InSinkErator Evolution Excel – powerful, quieter, and made for larger households

You can find both at home improvement stores or plumbing supply shops.

FAQs About Garbage Disposals

Can you put potato peels in the garbage disposal?

It’s best to avoid them. Potato skins can turn into a thick paste and clog your pipes.

Are coffee grounds safe for the disposal?

Only in small amounts with plenty of water. Otherwise, they can build up and create blockages.

Is grease okay if I flush it with cold water?

Nope. Grease solidifies eventually, even with cold water, and causes clogs over time.

Can bones go in the garbage disposal?

No. Bones are too hard and can damage the blades or get stuck in the unit.

How do I get rid of bad odors from my garbage disposal?

Try grinding citrus peels or flushing it with baking soda and vinegar. Always follow with cold water.

Final Thoughts: Respect the Disposal

Your garbage disposal is a helper, not a trash can. Treat it with care, avoid putting in things you shouldn’t, and run cold water every time. Doing this will keep your kitchen flowing smoothly and avoid surprise repair bills.

Need help with installation or a repair? Reach out to irrigation plumber near me for professional plumbing services you can count on.