Myth Busted: Do Hard Things Like Bones Need to Be Put in the Garbage Disposal?
Every now and then, we hear or read information that circulates as fact but isn't always accurate. One such myth that persists is the notion that hard things like bones should be placed into a garbage disposal to maintain its blade sharpness. Let's debunk this myth and provide you with accurate advice on how to properly maintain your garbage disposal.
Understanding the Truth Behind Garbage Disposal Functionality
Garbage disposals are designed to handle a wide range of soft food waste. These include fruit and vegetable scraps, small amounts of grains, and leftover food matter. The motorized grindings within a garbage disposal are equipped with hammers, impellers, and grinding discs to efficiently crush and disintegrate these soft materials. However, putting hard objects into a garbage disposal is not only unnecessary but can also lead to significant problems.
Why Do Not Put Hard Objects Like Bones in the Garbage Disposal?
1. Damage to the Unit: One of the most critical reasons to avoid putting hard objects like bones into your garbage disposal is the potential for damage to the unit itself. Hard items can easily cause wear and tear on the blades, impellers, and other internal components. This can lead to malfunctioning, reduced efficiency, and in severe cases, complete failure of the disposal system.
2. Clogs and Backups: Bones, because of their density and shape, can easily get stuck in the drain or disposal system. This can result in blockages that cause backups in the sink. Even if the bones initially get broken down in the disposal, their weight may make them prone to staying in the drainpipe, causing further issues.
Caring for Your Garbage Disposal Properly
To keep your garbage disposal functioning optimally, there are several best practices that you can follow:
Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while using the garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify fat and grease, preventing them from solidifying in the drain pipe and creating blockages. Avoid Fibrous Materials: Avoid putting fibrous materials like celery or corn husks into the disposal. These materials can wrap around the blades and potentially cause damage. Use Soft Food Waste: Stick to soft food waste like fruits, vegetables, grains, and leftover food. These materials are designed to be broken down by the disposal's mechanisms. Regular Maintenance: Regularly run the disposal with a small amount of ice cubes or used coffee grounds mixed with water to clean and sharpen the blades. This can help remove any built-up debris and keep the unit in good working condition.Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no need to put hard items like bones into your garbage disposal. Not only do these items not sharpen the blades, but they can cause significant damage to the unit and lead to clogs and backups. By understanding the proper way to use and maintain your garbage disposal, you can ensure that it continues to operate efficiently for years to come. Always opt for soft food waste and follow the tips mentioned above to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do garbage disposals have blades?A: Yes, garbage disposals have blades, but they are specifically designed to handle soft food waste. Attempting to put hard items like bones into the disposal can cause damage to these blades and the unit as a whole. Q: Can bones damage the blades of a garbage disposal?
A: Yes, bones have a high density and can weigh down and get stuck in the disposal, causing damage to the blades and potentially leading to clogs. Q: How can I maintain my garbage disposal?
A: Regularly run cold water, avoid fibrous materials, use soft food waste, and consider adding ice cubes or used coffee grounds to the disposal as a cleaning aid.