How to Use Your Garbage Disposal Like a Pro

August 5, 2025

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1 min read

Not legal advice. We’re property managers, not attorneys. This post reflects our professional experience — not legal counsel. For your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney ↓

✅ Quick Tips for Everyday Use

Only grind food scraps, this is after you’ve scraped the plate, etc, into the trash. Big chunks can jam the motor; fibrous stuff like celery, asparagus, onion skins, and banana peels can tangle up and clog things.
Run cold water before, during, and for 10–15 seconds after grinding. Cold water keeps grease solid so it gets chopped up—not stuck in the pipes.

What NOT to Put Down

No fats, oils, or grease—they solidify and slowly clog pipes.
Avoid coffee grounds, eggshells, seeds, bones, or pasta/rice—they cause build-up or sticky sludge.
Never toss in non-food items—no plastic, glass, paper, utensils or tobacco croppings.

Keep It Clean & Fresh

Monthly cleaning: Smash a handful of ice cubes (plus a scoop of baking soda or a bit of lemon) in the disposal with cold water. This helps clean and sharpen the grinding surfaces.
Deodorize: Grind citrus peels occasionally and in small pieces—or try pouring a little antibacterial mouthwash down the drain for a minty fresh scent between cleanings.
Deep maintenance: Every few months, clean under the splash guard (the rubber flange). Some folks avoid odor issues this way. Consider eco‑friendly enzymatic drain cleaners for an overnight treatment if allowed.

Safe Troubleshooting

If the disposal hums but doesn’t grind, cut the power first (unplug or breaker off), then try using the reset button or a small Allen wrench (that may have come with it) located on the bottom of the disposal.
Never put your hand inside—always use pliers or a wooden spoon after turning the power off.
If issues persist, notify your landlord or maintenance right away.

Jason Crouch · Founder, All East Bay Properties · CA DRE #01295378 · Licensed broker and East Bay property manager since 2005 — Jason Crouch · Founder,
All East Bay Properties

Jason Crouch is the founder of All East Bay Properties, which he established in Emeryville in 2005. For more than 20 years, he has managed residential rental properties across Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, and the broader East Bay — navigating some of California’s most tenant-protective rental markets in the country.

Jason holds a California real estate broker license (DRE #01295378) and is a member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) — the professional association for property management specialists — and is a member of the Bridge Association of Realtors. He has served as Chair of the Emeryville Chamber of Commerce, as incoming Chair of the Oakland Association of Realtors, and on the board of BridgeMLS. He was also a board member of ECAP, the Emeryville Citizens Assistance Program.

Article provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. California landlord-tenant law is subject to change, and local ordinances in Berkeley, Oakland, and other East Bay cities may impose requirements beyond those described here. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified property management professional before taking action based on any information in this guide.

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