What Is OK to Put Down a Garbage Disposal?

Disposal Process

• Waste is inserted through the sink drain. An electrical switch activates blades located a few inches down the drain. Running water on the moving blades helps break up the food and keeps it moving down the drain. After the disposal is shut off, flushing the drain with water clears it of leftover particles.

Appropriate Disposal Items

• Eggshells, coffee grounds, minuscule bones, vegetable and citrus fruit peels and most cooked foods are OK to put down a garbage disposal.

Disposal Enemies

• Foods like asparagus, corn husks and celery should be avoided as their fibers may clog the drain or wrap around the disposal blades. Large chunks of raw or cooked food can jam the blades, clog the drain or put excess stress on the disposal motor. Meat that is fatty or contains gristle should be avoided. Any nonorganic matter, including stickers on produce, should not be put into a garbage disposal.