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Can You Put Popcorn Kernels in a Garbage Disposal

popcorn kernels in a bowl spilling over onto a white background

Unpopped or poppedthat is the question. Popcorn is a delicious snack food. Its aroma spreads faster than you want and within seconds you have a lot of instant friends who wouldn’t normally give you the time of day.

No matter how many friends show up and eat your popcorn, they will not eat the unpopped kernels. Then you are left with the problem of disposing of those unwanted items.

To find out if you can use your disposal or not, just keep reading our article. It has the answer for you as well as other important information. Take a few minutes to see how this information can protect your garbage disposal from damage

Can You Put Unpopped Popcorn Kernels in Your Disposal

wooden scoop of popcorn kernels spilling onto a wooden surface with a few pieces of popped pop corn

It is said that popped popcorn is okay to dispose of in this manner. Those food items should not damage the blades nor clog up the disposal. The same cannot be said for corn husks and corn cobs.

But what about unpopped popcorn kernels? This item is also banned from being put inside that kitchen appliance. It doesn’t matter how powerful your disposal is, it is always best to put those kernels inside your trash.

There is no sense in taking any risks as unpopped kernels are very hard and can damage the inner workings of your disposal. Also, there may be some grease on those kernels and that grease can transfer to the blades and stick to them.

Then the grease can build up, trapping other food particles, and soon you have a clogged disposal on your hands. Protect your disposal and make sure you are not putting the wrong items inside.

How to Fix Your Disposal

hand using a wrench to repair a garbage disposal under the sink

If the problem is minor, then you should be able to unclog your disposal in a few minutes. All you have to use will be tongs, pliers, or a plunger. Running a plumber’s snake through the disposal is not a good idea as the metal tool can damage something inside the appliance.

However, if you are not good at handyman tasks or you do not like working around electrical items or wiring, it is best to call a professional repairman. They will have the experience and the right tools to fix your garbage disposal.

This option may cost you more, but it is better than ruining your disposal by doing it yourself.

Some Final Words

Bowl of popped popcorn spilling onto a table.

When in doubt, don’t do it. That is a key to operating your garbage disposal. If you are not sure, opt for the trash can instead and spare yourself some headaches.

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