When people have garbage disposal units, they tend to see this as an excuse to put anything they like down the sink. However, there are many solids and liquids which increase the chances of blockages in the pipes.
So, if you want to avoid blocked drains – and, let’s face it, everyone does – here is a list of a few of the main things that you should avoid putting down the sink. Let’s get started!
Grease, Fats, and Oils
These three thick liquids are common culprits when it comes to causing blocked drains. Many people believe that they are water-soluble, but in fact, they are likely to end up building up layers over the blades of your garbage grinder which will eventually solidify. Instead of pouring them directly down the sink, you should instead put them in a separate container where they can be disposed of normally.
Soft Foods
A lot of foods are fine to put down the garbage disposal as they are broken down smoothly and are not likely to cause significant clogging issues. However, softer items such as pasta, rice, potatoes, and beans swell up with water and may end up causing an obstruction to your drain pipe. So, be careful about too many of these items down the sink.
Fruit and Vegetable Peels
When you are peeling fruit and vegetables such as apples and potatoes, it is very easy for these items to fall down the sink. When they churned up by the garbage disposal, they can end up turning into a paste (just like the items listed above). Plug up your sink when you are peeling produce over it to avoid them causing an issue.
Coffee Grinds
Even if you have been told not to throw coffee grinds down the sink a million times before, there are still plenty of people who do it anyway. And if you throw enough of them down there, they will inevitably lead to an obstruction in the pipes. There are plenty of other purposes which you can utilise coffee grinds for, such as using them as fertiliser for your plants.
Medications
How many times have you seen a TV or movie character throw a bottle of pills down the sink? Well, you certainly shouldn’t follow their example! Instead, all medication should be disposed of properly at a dedicated medicine disposal area.
Chemical Cleaners
Chemical cleaners can end up being disruptive to water ecosystems, so when you want to clean out your drain, you should stick to all-natural cleaners. These will also help to avoid causing any damage to your pipes.
While throwing everything and anything down the drain may seem like a simple solution, clearing out a blocked drain is going to be anything but easy. So, use this guide as an overview of the items that you should avoid throwing down the sink, keep your sink from getting clogged, and make sure you use quality, natural cleaning products. This way, you can ensure your kitchen continues running smoothly.
COXO
Debbie
This is a collaborative post.
