For those who aren’t in a position to compost, in-sink garbage disposals allow for a clean, fast way to remove food waste (and the inevitable food odors). Disposals work by pulverizing food scraps into small enough particles that they can go through the water waste system—rather than into a landfill. How? Once you drop your apple peels and eggshells into the disposal, turn on the faucet, and flip the switch, that food is knocked back and forth inside the grind chamber (there aren’t any sharp blades in there!).
Whether you're looking to get a new garbage disposal, are purchasing one for the first time, or need a refresher on how they work, we have you covered. Here's everything you need to know about the kitchen necessity. (And if you need help installing one yourself, we have a step-by-step guide that'll take you through the process.)
What are the benefits of a garbage disposal?
Along with allowing for an easy, quick way to remove food waste and prevent food odors, garbage disposals have plenty of other benefits. For starters, they reduce the amount of food you toss in the trash. That means you'll go through trash bags slower, which will save you money and be less harsh on the environment. Disposing of your own food waste also helps cut down the amount of trash that gets sent to landfills, reducing the amount of methane produced at them. Not to mention, a disposal helps to improve drainage and protect your pipes, according to Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc. That'll help you avoid paying for a plumber to fix any clogs, leaks, or burst pipes.
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What can you put in a garbage disposal?
Not all foods are meant to be stuffed into your garbage disposal. Generally, most soft and solid foods can be put in your garbage disposal, like fruits and vegetables. To prevent any clogs, jams, or build-up, avoid things like fibrous scraps (celery), tough bones, fruit pits, grease, oil, cooking fat, pasta, coffee grounds, and potato peels.
How do you choose a garbage disposal?
Some garbage disposals are made to take on foods you'd typically want to keep out—like plumbing brand Moen's version, called The Chef, which can handle chicken bones and fruit pits. The brand has three other versions based on different horsepowers and lifestyles: The Host, The Prep, and The Lite. Better yet, starting this fall, all of them will be available with a 360° Clean Rinse cycle to clean residual odors out of the internal chamber.
Select a garbage disposal based on the type of food you typically eat and prepare the most often. Once you've determined what you'll be putting in it, you'll be able to find one that fits your lifestyle in no time.
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I am the Market Director for House Beautiful. At any given point I’m searching for my next foodie and design-related travel adventure, drinking a nice pour of bourbon or a perfectly poured martini, or searching for my dream home in Mexico/North Carolina. My personal design style: lots of pattern, color and art on every surface.
Kelly Allen is the current Associate Editor at House Beautiful, where she covers design, pop culture, and travel for digital and the print magazine. She’s been with the team for nearly three years, attending industry events and covering a range of topics. When she’s not watching every new TV show and movie, she’s browsing vintage home stores, admiring hotel interiors, and wandering around New York City. She previously worked for Delish and Cosmopolitan. Follow her on Instagram.
