Garbage disposals grind up food waste and make kitchen cleanup easier. Some items, however, should never be sent down the drain to avoid plumbing problems. Here are five to keep away from your garbage disposal to protect your pipes.

4 Items to Keep Out of the Garbage Disposal

1. Egg Shells

Contrary to a popular belief, egg shells will not sharpen garbage disposal blades. Egg shells are difficult to grind, and their membrane will coat the blades, making your system less efficient.

2. Starchy Foods

Potatoes and their peels create a paste when wet that sticks to garbage disposal blades. Rice will swell when exposed to water, resulting in a sticky clog that interferes with plumbing. It is better to compost these leftovers instead of sending them into your pipes.

3. Coffee Grounds

Avoid dumping grounds after a freshly brewed pot of coffee. These particles will build up over time, causing an obstruction in your garbage disposal and pipes. Instead, spread grounds in your garden or around indoor plants to keep insects away. You can also use them to absorb food odors in your refrigerator.

4. Flushable Wipes

Even if the label says they are flushable, avoid disposing of any wipes in plumbing fixtures. They do not break down as much as they claim, which leads to blockages. In general, any inorganic matter should not go into your garbage disposal since it will not break down.

From Captain Cook to Waimea, HI, Plumbing Strategies has been the contractor to call for drain cleaning and other residential plumbing needs for more than 50 years. Their professional team of licensed plumbers can handle both residential and commercial projects. The company is also associated with Kona Web, Kona Kohala Chamber of Commerce, NARPM, and Big Island Electric. For help with your garbage disposal and a free estimate, call (808) 325-2502. Visit them online for testimonials from past customers.