You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

Don’t Put These Items in Your Garbage Disposal


Ah, the garbage disposal system. Placed strategically right next to your sink for easy access and even easier use. But if you have one, you know it’s not like your regular garbage can at all! After all, your trash can can’t grind up bits of food like the disposal can. But what can you actually put down there, anyway? Luckily, there are a number of different things you can blend up in the garbage disposal, but there are even more items that should be avoided. Here is a list of the things you should never put down your garbage disposal…

  • Rice, pasta, and bread: What all three of these foods have in common is that they are absorbent, meaning that they swell up and grow in size when they are in contact with any kind of liquid. Avoid putting these in the garbage disposal, because they can cause clogs in your pipes.

  • Large bones from pork and beef products: Not only will these not grind up in the garbage disposal, but they can also damage the blades in the disposal, by breaking or chipping them.

  • Fatty and greasy food products, such as cheese: While you might think you can put these in the garbage disposal, seeing as they are soft foods, it’s highly advised against. These kinds of products can coat the walls of the garbage disposal, which can cause things like clogs. They can also clog your pipes if they end up getting caught in there, as well.

  • Peels, such as bananas, and starchy foods like potatoes: Even though the garbage disposal might seem like a prime place to get rid of excess peels while preparing a meal, you’ll soon regret that decision. The thing about peels is that they transform into a paste-like substance that can cause clogs and give off nasty odors.

If you get any clogs in your garbage disposal or need to repair yours, we are here to help at Parker & Sons!

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