Your garbage disposal is a powerful kitchen helper—but like any appliance, it needs a little attention to keep running smoothly. With regular care and a few smart habits, you can extend its life and avoid costly repairs.

What Shouldn’t Go Down the Drain

Although your garbage disposal can handle some scraps, many food and non-food items are better off in the trash. To prevent clogs, jams, and damage, avoid putting the following down your disposal:

  • Fat or grease
  • Bones
  • Eggshells
  • Pasta or rice
  • Pits and seeds
  • Any packaging materials

These items can damage your blades, cause blockages, and reduce the performance of your unit.

Easy Garbage Disposal Cleaning Tips

Maintaining your disposal takes just a few seconds and can prevent big issues down the line. Here’s how to keep it clean and odor-free:

  • Run cold water for 15 seconds after each use—or at least once a week.
  • Grind citrus peels to freshen up the smell.
  • Use ice cubes monthly to clean and sharpen blades.
  • Try baking soda and vinegar—½ cup of each, added slowly, followed by a cold-water rinse.
  • Use commercial disposal cleaners according to package instructions.

Running your disposal regularly is also key. This helps prevent corrosion and clears out lingering food particles.

Common Issues and What to Do

If your garbage disposal starts acting up, don’t panic. Here are some of the most common symptoms—and what they likely mean:

1. Won’t Turn On

  • Check for overheating—wait five minutes, then press the reset button (usually at the bottom)
  • Test the outlet by plugging in another appliance
  • Reset your circuit breaker if needed

If none of these work, call a professional to inspect the motor or electrical connection.

2. Humming but Not Grinding

This is likely due to a food jam. Here’s what to do:

  • Shut off the power to the unit
  • Use a wrench and your owner’s manual to access the flywheel
  • Gently remove the blockage using pliers or a utensil
  • Reset the unit once cleared

If the motor has burned out, replacement may be necessary.

3. Leaks from Pipes or Fittings

  • Identify the source of the leak
  • Tighten bolts or fittings if possible
  • For larger leaks or complex plumbing issues, contact a plumber

Pro tip: Always disconnect or cut the power supply before attempting any repairs.

With just a little maintenance and some careful habits, your garbage disposal can stay in top shape for years. Knowing what to avoid—and how to troubleshoot small issues—puts you in control of your kitchen’s most underrated appliance.

Now you’re ready to keep things running smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

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