The garbage disposal is one of those kitchen products you might not think too much about—until it breaks down or you suddenly don’t have one anymore. Since the first garbage disposal hit the market in 1938, they’ve remained one of the most popular time- and labor-saving fixtures in any era’s contemporary kitchen.

There are a few measures you can take to prolong the life of your garbage disposal, such as:

• Run cold water down the drain while it’s in use. Cold water will help prevent overheating of all the moving parts. Hot water can melt fat trapped inside food and the garbage disposal which can solidify further down in the pipes.
• Ice cubes can actually help remove any blade buildup. Combine pure lemon juice and vinegar, freeze them and throw them down for an effective cleaner.
• Clean the inside with a paper towel on a regular basis. NOTE: Just be sure to do this with the disposal off.

You probably already know that garbage disposals are designed to obliterate only certain food items. If you’re ever unsure whether something might be not work in the garbage disposal, it just might be. Some foods you’ll want to avoid putting down there include bones (especially those which are large or heavy), popcorn kernels that refused to be popped, and hard shellfish (like crabs and shrimp).

Fibrous and starchy foods like banana peels, celery and corn husks can get tangled inside your garbage disposal, and potato peelings, rice and flour can thicken and harden in the drain. Other foods to avoid include pasta, rice, cornmeal and bread.

The following items might seem like they belong on a “Now, really…” list, but they’re actually compiled from a few actual lists of items you should NEVER put down a garbage disposal:

• Glass
• Fingers
• Plastic
• Paper
• Twisty ties
• Hair
• Coinage
• String
• Toys
• Cigarettes
• Utensils
• Bottle caps

Your garbage disposal is designed to provide you with years of service. With a little bit of research and some easy-to-follow maintenance suggestions, your garbage disposal will be a smooth-running and valuable part of your kitchen.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!

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