Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: Several friends got into a conversation about what items should and should not be put down a sink disposal system, disagreeing on many. Some of these were ice cubes, coffee grounds, potato skins and eggshells, among others. Now I’m more confused than ever. The owner’s manual does not provide much guidance.– Marilyn, San Antonio

Marilyn, let’s see if we can give you some pointers and clear up your confusion. Here are some of the things you should not put down the garbage disposal:

“bones;

“seafood shells – oyster, clam, shrimp, etc.;

“glass, china or metal items;

“grease;

“ any fibrous item like artichokes, corn husks, celery, asparagus and potato peelings.

Also, put stuff in the disposal slowly and be sure to run plenty of cold water so that everything is ground up. – Heloise