One thing about garbage disposals, while they are a handy tool to have in your kitchen, they are not so handy if they get clogged or broken. Then you have to spend extra time cleaning them out or paying for a new one.
So, the answer to the question of whether you can put potato peels in a garbage disposal is a resounding ‘no’. That is if you are going to dump a lot of peels in at the same time. Like the orange and lemon peels, you should only put small amounts of potato peels in your disposal at one time.
If you go with large amounts, then the common problem of a clogged disposal or drain will result. The reason why potato peels clog up a disposal is that their starch content creates a nice sticky paste.
This paste sticks to the blades and the sides of the disposal and clogs any of the openings it reaches. When this clog starts to develop you have a few options at your disposal to use.
One option is to turn to the handy and trusty plunger. A little force may dislodge the paste and get it to go down the drain. Or you can use chemical cleaners to break the paste down but those chemical cleansers can contain harmful ingredients so be careful.
Then if you do not like those two ideas, you can try the baking soda and vinegar option, lemon extract or even Coke or Pepsi drinks. The acidity in those soda flavors will help break down the paste.
You can also try the plumber’s snake or a metal wire, from a metal coat hanger if the clog is close to the surface. It is your choice which method you use. But to avoid that decision, get rid of those potato peels either through composting or the regular trash can.
Those two items save you a lot of time and trouble. The disposal may seem like the easy way to go but the easiest way is not always the most prudent or the best option to use.
Some Final Words
When it comes to potato peels you should always take alternative disposal methods than using your garbage disposal. Taking a couple of extra minutes to compost or toss in a trash bag will save you money and make life a little easier for you.
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