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Can You Put Corn Cobs in a Garbage Disposal

empty corn cobs with one whole ear of corn in the middle all on a white plate

Corn on the cob is delicious, especially when it is served with nice, melted butter. This style of eating corn is convenient and saves on cleaning up pots and pans after the meal is over. It is also a family and guest favorite.

But cleaning up those cobs can lead some people to think their disposal would be a great tool to get rid of all the leftover cobs. It is easy, quick and all you need is a little water.

However, that may not be a great idea as corn cobs are very fibrous materials. To learn the solution to this question, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about.

Corn Cobs and Disposals- Is it a Good Idea

person washing whole ears of corn over a black kitchen sink next to a colander full of corn

While the garbage disposal is a convenient appliance to use to get rid of unwanted food, it is not always the best solution. The blades are not as strong as you think, and it can get clogged up when you put too much of the wrong food into its mouth.

Those blades can get damaged fairly easily when you put corn cobs down the chute. Those cobs are not as soft as you may think. The other danger that comes with putting corn cobs down the disposal is that corn cobs are very fibrous items.

Those long fibers can easily wrap themselves up around the blades or other food items causing an obstruction somewhere in the disposal or the drain itself. That obstruction will harm the disposal by not letting it work like it should or it can harm your drain pipes by blocking their drain exits.

Once either happens, you will have to spend time and money to get both essential kitchen items back to where they can function normally.

The Best Way to Dispose of Corn Cobs

close up of a compost pile

Since the garbage disposal isn’t and option, your other two choices are to dispose of the corn cobs in your kitchen trash can, or compost them. Though composting a corn cob can take a while longer than most items, it will create some great nutrients for your garden plants when it breaks down. And don’t forget your husks. They can be composted, also.

Some Final Words

full ear of corn on the stalk in a corn field.

Corn on the cob adds a special element to any evening meal or picnic. But getting rid of them can be a hassle at times. Instead of ruining your disposal or drains, use the traditional methods of getting rid of those leftover cobs. You will be glad you did.

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