10 Tips to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running for Years

A garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working fixtures in your kitchen. Treat it well and it will serve you for years. Abuse it and you'll be calling a plumber. Here are ten simple habits that make all the difference.

Do this

• Run cold water before, during, and after use
• Feed scraps in gradually, not all at once
• Grind ice cubes occasionally to clean the blades
• Use citrus peels to keep it smelling fresh
• Run it regularly so parts don't seize

Never do this

• Pour grease or oil down the disposal
• Grind fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, or potato peels
• Put bones, pits, or coffee grounds in it
• Use harsh chemical drain cleaners
• Reach in without cutting power first