Garbage disposals are a modern kitchen convenience—until they stop working. Most homeowners don’t realize they’re using their disposal the wrong way until it’s too late. From costly repairs to complete replacements, simple mistakes can lead to major headaches.

What Happens When You Misuse Your Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal repair is designed to handle small food scraps—not as a substitute for your trash can. When misused, these machines can clog, jam, or even break entirely. And guess what? The repair bill might surprise you.

1. Pouring Grease or Oil Down the Drain

Why It’s a Problem:

Grease may go down as a liquid, but it solidifies as it cools—creating stubborn clogs.

The Fix:

Dispose of grease in a container, let it solidify, and toss it in the trash instead.

2. Overloading the Disposal

Why It’s a Problem:

Stuffing large amounts of food waste at once can jam the blades and strain the motor.

The Fix:

Feed waste into the disposal slowly while running cold water to help it grind more efficiently.

3. Using Hot Water During Operation

Why It’s a Problem:

Hot water can melt fats and oils temporarily, causing them to coat the inside of your pipes.

The Fix:

Always run cold water while your disposal is on. Cold water keeps oils solid so they can be chopped and flushed away.

4. Putting Fibrous Foods in the Disposal

Why It’s a Problem:

Celery, corn husks, and onion skins can tangle around the blades, leading to blockages.

The Fix:

Throw fibrous or stringy vegetables in the trash or compost bin instead.

5. Dropping Non-Food Items In

Why It’s a Problem:

Bones, glass, metal, and even small utensils can damage your disposal or cause serious injury.

The Fix:

Double-check what goes in. Only soft, biodegradable food scraps should make it into the unit.

6. Skipping Regular Cleaning

Why It’s a Problem:

Odors, bacteria, and build-up can accumulate, reducing performance and hygiene.

The Fix:

Clean your disposal weekly with a mix of ice cubes, citrus peels, and baking soda for a fresh-smelling, efficient appliance.

7. Not Running It Often Enough

Why It’s a Problem:

Infrequent use can lead to rust, corrosion, or trapped food rotting inside.

The Fix:

Even if you don’t use it much, run your disposal with cold water every few days to keep it in good working condition.

Conclusion

Your garbage disposal is a workhorse in the kitchen, but it’s not indestructible. By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you can extend the life of your unit, prevent expensive repairs, and keep your kitchen running smoothly.