Approximately 20% of the orange is composed of its peel, according to the National Library of Medicine, which shows that this pulp is also a common kitchen waste item, but can you put them in a garbage disposal? It’s an important question to ask if you’re looking to reduce your kitchen trash.
The answer to this question is a resounding yes, you can put orange peels in a garbage disposal, however, you should take certain precautions to ensure they don’t get stuck and create a clog.
These pulps are naturally fibrous and can accumulate quickly, so it’s best to avoid putting large amounts in at any one time. It’s also important to remember to run enough water while disposing of the peels, as this will help to flush them away and prevent clogs.
Can You Put Orange Peels In Garbage Disposal?
Yes, you can put orange peels in a garbage disposal. These are made of a soft, fibrous material that can be broken down easily in a waste unit. In addition, these pulps are a good source of natural enzymes and oils, as per the National Library of Medicine, that can help to clean the disposal and freshen up the odor.
However, make sure to run cold water for about 30 seconds before and after putting the orange peels in the garbage disposal, as this helps them break down and prevents clogs. You should also avoid putting any large chunks of these rinds into the waste unit as they could dull up the blades.
How to dispose of orange peels?
Disposing of orange peels in the garbage disposal is a great way to keep them out of the landfill, while also helping to keep your waste unit clean and functioning properly. Here is how to do it:
1. Break Up Orange Peels: Before throwing orange peels into the garbage disposal, break them up into small pieces. Doing so will ensure that the orange peels do not clump together and cause a clog in the disposal.
2. Turn on Cold Water: Once the orange peels are chopped up, open the tap and let the chill of the water run through them. This will help separate the peels and keep them from forming any blockages.
3. Turn on Garbage Disposal: With the cold water flowing, flick on the garbage disposal and let it whir for a few moments. Ensure that all sections of orange peels are eliminated and the water is streaming freely.
4. Add Detergent: Add a few drops of dishwashing detergent to the waste unit and let it continue to run for a few more minutes. The detergent will help to break down any remaining pieces of these pulps and keep the disposal clean.
5. Rinse Disposal with Hot Water: Once the cleaner has had a chance to do its job, give the disposal a good rinse with hot water. This will help wash away any lingering bits of orange peel that remain, leaving your disposal squeaky clean and free from any potential clogs.
6. Periodically clean the garbage disposal: Routinely spruce up your waste unit by sprinkling baking soda in, and then following it with a splash of vinegar. Run the disposal for a few seconds to give it a deep clean, leaving your disposal free of any unwanted build-up.
By following these steps, you can easily dispose of orange peels in the garbage disposal and help create a healthier environment.
Why You Should Use Orange Peels To Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Using orange peels to clean your garbage disposal is a great way to keep it clean and odor-free. They are a natural deodorizer, and are also highly effective at keeping your waste unit smelling fresh and clean.
Here are some reasons why you should use orange peels to clean your garbage disposal:
1. Orange Peels Freshen Up the Garbage Disposal: Citrus fruits like oranges contain natural oils that are both fragrant and antibacterial. This means that using orange peels to clean your garbage disposal will not only help to get rid of any unpleasant odors, but it can also help to keep any bacteria at bay.
2. Get Rid of Clogs: The fibers found in these rinds help to dislodge any food waste that may have gotten stuck in the blades of the garbage disposal. The skin of the orange also helps to scrape away any debris that is in the way and helps to clear the clog.
3. Keeps the Blades Sharp: The pithy power of orange peels can put a professional edge on your garbage disposal blades! That means less wait time and faster food waste processing from your trusty disposal.
4. Orange Peels Are Natural and Non-Toxic: Orange peels can be a great, safe way to clean your garbage disposal. As they are natural and non-toxic, there is no risk of any harmful chemicals entering your kitchen or food waste. This makes it an ideal choice for keeping your disposal clean without the use of harsh chemicals.
5. A Cost-Effective Option: Using these rinds is an inexpensive and effective method of rinsing your waste unit. There is no need to purchase any pricey cleaning solutions, as the peels already in your kitchen are more than sufficient. Furthermore, regular use of the peels can help to prevent costly repairs resulting from a buildup of residue.
FAQs
Can you put fruit skin in the garbage disposal?
No, it is not recommended to put fruit pulps other than citrus fruit peels into the garbage disposal. The rinds of certain fruits can be too fibrous or tough for the blades to break down and can cause clogs or damage to the disposal.
Citrus fruit peels, however, can be put into the waste unit because the oils in the skins can help lubricate and freshen the disposal.
Why should you not throw away orange peels?
It is not recommended to throw away orange peels because there are numerous benefits to saving and using them. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, and can also be used to create natural cleaning solutions, air fresheners, and insect repellents.
Plus, they have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that can help to improve oral health and reduce cholesterol, and according to the National Library of Medicine, also protect against certain types of cancer.
Final Verdict
To wrap it up, it is evident that orange peels can be tossed in the garbage disposal, however, they should not be the primary sustenance. They are an excellent way to neutralize odors in a smelly waste unit, yet they should never be used instead of regular maintenance. To make sure the garbage disposal is functioning optimally and can handle the sporadic orange peel, clean it on a bi-weekly basis.
Lastly, keep in mind that though orange peels are acceptable for garbage disposal, do not put too much in them as it can lead to clogging and an even bigger dilemma. By following the guidelines for using your waste unit responsibly, you can guarantee it will not only work properly but also keep your kitchen smelling delightfully citrusy!
Thank you for reading!
Gemma Alexander has an M.S. in urban horticulture and a backyard filled with native plants. After working in a genetics laboratory and at a landfill, she now writes about the environment and recycling topics.