As a garbage disposal owner, have you ever found yourself standing in the kitchen, orange peels in hand, wondering if it’s safe to put them down your beloved appliance? You’ve heard all sorts of things – “Just toss ’em in! They’re good for it.”, “Never do it, it’ll ruin your disposal!”. The conflicting information can be overwhelming and leave you feeling unsure and hesitant. So, what’s the verdict, here? Can you put orange peels in the garbage disposal or not?
Well, here’s the short answer: yes! Orange peels can actually be good for your garbage disposal. But, as with most things in life, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind if you’re going to do it properly.
In this blog post, we’re going to explore what you need to know when it comes to putting orange peels in your garbage disposal. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t been doing this sooner!
The Benefits of Putting Orange Peels in the Garbage Disposal
It’s not just a great way to dispose of your orange scraps – these peels are surprisingly beneficial when it comes to your garbage disposal. Here are a few reasons why:
Freshens Up Your Disposal
While garbage disposals can be real time-savers in the kitchen, they can also develop quite an unpleasant odor over time. If you’ve noticed this happening in your own kitchen, throwing a few orange peels down the disposal is a quick and easy way to freshen things up.
See, orange peels contain natural oils that not only smell great, but also have antibacterial properties. When you grind them up in your disposal, these oils get released and spread throughout the appliance, effectively eliminating any unwanted odors.
Enhances Cleaning Power
Orange peels also contain citric acid, which is a powerful cleaning agent commonly found in many household cleaners. When ground up in your garbage disposal, the citric acid from the peels can help to break down grease and other grime that may have built up inside the appliance.
This makes it easier for your disposal to do its job effectively and efficiently, reducing the chances of it clogging or malfunctioning. So not only does putting orange peels in your garbage disposal make it smell better, but it also helps to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Eco-Friendly Option
Another great benefit of using orange peels in your garbage disposal is that it’s an eco-friendly option especially when you compare it to using harsh chemicals or cleaners, like Drano. Citric acid is a natural substance and poses no harm to the environment when it goes down the drain.
Plus, by using orange peels in your disposal, you’re also reducing food waste and making use of something that would otherwise be thrown away. This can help to minimize your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Are There Any Downsides to Putting Orange Peels Down the Garbage Disposal?
As you can see, there are some real benefits to throwing your orange scraps down the garbage disposal. But are there any downsides to doing so?
Well, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
Can Dull the Blades
One concern is that putting orange scraps down your garbage disposal can dull its blades over time. This is because the peels contain small amounts of oil that can coat the blades and make them less effective at grinding food waste.
But that being said, this isn’t an issue that’s particular to orange peels. It’s a risk you take with all types of food scraps. Though, there are some items that can be so damaging that you shouldn’t put them down the garbage disposal at all.
May Cause Clogs
Another potential downside to putting orange peels down your garbage disposal is that they can contribute to clogs. This is especially true if you have an older or weaker unit that may struggle to break down tougher fruit fibers.
Again, though, this is a potential issue with any type of food waste. Fortunately, you can largely avoid clogs by taking a few simple precautions.
How to Safely Put Orange Peels in the Garbage Disposal
To minimize the risk of dull blades or clogs, follow these tips when putting orange peels in your garbage disposal:
Step 1: Cut the Peels Into Small Pieces
Before you toss the orange peels into the disposal, make sure to cut them into smaller pieces. This will help prevent larger chunks from getting stuck and causing a potential clog.
Step 2: Run Cold Water Before, During, and After
Running cold water before, during, and after putting orange scraps down the garbage disposal helps keep everything moving smoothly. The water can help break down any oils or food particles that may cling to the blades.
So, after turning on the tap for a few seconds, begin to slowly add the orange peels while the water continues to flow. Then, once all the peels have been added, keep the water running for at least 15 seconds after turning off the disposal to ensure everything has been flushed through.
Step 3: Toss Some Ice Cubes Down the Disposal
If you’re concerned about orange peels or any other kind of food waste dulling the blades, toss a handful of ice cubes down the disposal after running it. The ice cubes can help sharpen the blades and scrape off any remaining food particles.
Start Putting More Orange Peels in Your Garbage Disposal Today
While it’s generally safe to put orange peels down the garbage disposal, it’s important to be cautious and take preventative measures to avoid potential issues. Fortunately, by following these simple steps, you can safely dispose of your orange scraps without worrying about damaging your garbage disposal.
Now, with these tips in mind, you can safely say goodbye to those orange peels and hello to a clean and functioning garbage disposal. So, don’t be afraid to make that freshly-squeezed orange juice – you have the perfect solution to get rid of those peels!
Still worried about food jamming your garbage disposal? Check out this Waste Maid disposal with its anti-jam Torque Master balanced grinding system.