Despite the name, a garbage disposal should never be used as a trash receptacle in your sink. Although it can grind small food scraps that remain on the dishes and cookware, some items can ruin the device and plumbing. If you want to prevent that from happening, make sure everyone in your house knows to keep the following items out of the disposal.

What You Should Never Put in the Garbage Disposal

1. Coffee Grounds

Pouring coffee grounds into the garbage disposal can quickly lead to a clog. Even if they're dry, the grounds become thick and sludgy once they need water in the drain. If you want to eliminate odors from the drain, sprinkle baking soda on the drain splash guard; let it sit for at least 20 minutes, add a bit of liquid dish soap, and brush it off with an old toothbrush.

2. Pasta & Rice

These popular carbohydrates are additional causes for concern. Not only do pasta and rice expand when water is added, but they also become thick and sticky since more starch is produced. If there's any left on people's plates, skip the garbage disposal and scrape it into a garbage can.

3. Starchy Vegetables

Pasta and rice aren't the only foods that can clog the drain. Vegetables like squash, potatoes, beans, and pumpkin are also quite starchy, especially after they've been cooked. Pumpkin is especially a nuisance since it's fibrous. If you have any scraps left after dinner that aren't covered in a sauce or oil, place them into the compost; everything else goes into the trash.

Whether you've accidentally dropped some of these items inside it or not, make an appointment with All American Plumbing if you're having problems with your garbage disposal. Located in Concord, NC, residents throughout Cabarrus County have relied on them for their plumbing needs. Licensed and insured, they offer written warranties with every project. For a free estimate, call them today at (704) 788-8690, or send them a message through their website.