Buying guide for best garbage disposals
A garbage disposal is a second trash can, one for all the gunk that you don't want sitting in a wastebasket stinking up your kitchen until it's ready to be emptied. It's a cost-effective odor-free device that can help you with even the toughest clean ups. But there are a few things you need to consider before purchasing the one that is best for you.
In general, a continuous feed garbage disposal is your best option because it's always ready to work. However, if you have curious children, a batch feed garbage disposal is a much safer option because it will not function until the lid is securely in place. You want a durable, high-powered model with anti-clogging features and an automatic shutoff.
Do you need a garbage disposal?
A garbage disposal is installed under your sink. When you turn it on, the garbage disposal’s blades spin and cut up any food in the sink’s drain into tiny pieces, so the food won’t clog up your plumbing.
There are many ways a garbage disposal can benefit your kitchen.
Easy cleanup
With a garbage disposal, most leftover food can be put down the drain. As a result, you’ll likely find yourself with less trash.
Testing garbage disposals
We considered over 50 different garbage disposals over the course of 48 hours before choosing our top five. We then purchased our favorite and tested it in the BestReviews lab.
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Cost-effective
No more calling a plumber with a garbage disposal, which won’t clog your drain.
Odor-free
Leftover food does not sit out but is disposed right away. With a garbage disposal, there is no need to spritz your kitchen with air freshener because of a smelly trash can.
Caution
Don’t put inorganic waste down a garbage disposal. A garbage disposal is for food only.
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Environmentally friendly
Garbage disposals are low-energy devices, and they help reduce overall food waste.
If you’re not keen on composting, a garbage disposal is a good alternative.
We appreciate continuous feed garbage disposals that don’t require anything from the user but flipping a switch and running some cold water.
During research, we look for garbage disposals that have plenty of power so you can toss a wide variety of food waste in without worrying about clogs.
Some garbage disposals are less likely to jam than others. We give top marks to those that run smoothly and without issue.
When compiling our research list, we include septic feed garbage disposals that homeowners in rural areas who are not connected to a sewer system would appreciate.
We give bonus points to quality garbage disposals with advanced features, such as automatic shutoff and the ability to hook into a dishwasher.
When researching garbage disposals, we look at traditional models as well as unconventional options, like batch feed disposals.
We look for garbage disposals with the chops to grind all sorts of food waste, from starchy foods to vegetable peelings.
We place high value on garbage disposals with remarkably durable blades that are unlikely to require maintenance and will deliver years of service.
We give top marks to robust garbage disposals with reliable internals and high-impact exterior materials like stainless steel.
In our research, we look for garbage disposals that work relatively quietly without sacrificing power.
Types of garbage disposals
Continuous feed garbage disposals
The most popular type of garbage disposal, you only need to flip a switch to grind up your leftovers with a continuous feed disposal.
You can also add more food while the disposal is running since it does so continuously.
Septic feed garbage disposals
A septic feed garbage disposal works with a septic system. The device breaks down food waste mechanically, along with the help of microorganisms.
Batch feed garbage disposals
This kind of garbage disposal is basically a food processor for your food waste.
A lid is required for a batch feed disposal, which keeps users safe. The unit will only work with the cover securely tightened.
What to look for when buying a garbage disposal
Noise
Newer models are a lot less noisy, but a garbage disposal isn’t going to be your quietest appliance. Higher-end models generally make less noise.
If you notice an unusual sound or buzzing coming from your unit, this could mean something is jammed inside or the device needs maintenance.
Price
Inexpensive garbage disposals are made of less durable materials like aluminum. More expensive units are made of stainless steel and are sturdier and more powerful.
Keep in mind that the cost of a disposal unit does not include installation. In most cases, a garbage disposal should be professionally installed.
Did you know?
A higher-end garbage disposal requires less power and water to function, which is more eco-friendly.
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Durability
Most garbage disposal units will last at least five years. Sturdier, more expensive models can last up to 10 years or longer. Look for a garbage disposal with a good warranty.
Build material
What a garbage disposal is made of is important for its longevity. Stainless steel, for instance, won’t rust as quickly.
Power
The wattage of a garbage disposal’s motor determines how efficiently it can grind food waste.
A high-wattage motor can quickly and powerfully mash nearly any kind of organic matter you put down the drain.
Extra features
Some garbage disposals have extra features to avoid clogging up the system.
Other models include safety features like auto shutoff.
A few garbage disposals can be hooked up to your dishwasher, so you don’t have to worry about rinsing and scraping off food residue before loading dishes.
For your safety
Warning: Whatever you do, never put your hands down the drain to unclog your garbage disposal.
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Don’t do this: what to avoid when using a garbage disposal
Not everything can be put down a garbage disposal. Avoid putting any of the following down your garbage disposal:
Particularly tough vegetables (like celery)
Fruit pits
Oils, fats, grease (these can cause unwanted buildup and clog your system)
Bones
Anything that’s not food
FAQ
Q. Do I need to get a professional to install my garbage disposal?
A. Probably. A garbage disposal is a powerful device that grinds up food. You don’t want to grind up your fingers, and you’ll want to make sure your garbage disposal is properly installed to prevent leaks.
Q. Should I use hot or cold water when running my garbage disposal?
A. Using cold water reduces the chance of buildup inside the disposal and is more efficient at washing down debris and waste.
Q. How do I clean my new device and keep my fingers?
A. Never stick your hands in a garbage disposal. If you need to take the machine apart to inspect inside, make sure it is powered off, and you’ve cut the electrical supply. Otherwise, some natural ways to clean your disposal are by pouring ice cubes, lemon juice, or vinegar down the drain.
Q. What do I do if my disposal gets jammed?
A. First, troubleshoot a bit. You can stick something down the drain (not your fingers) to try and dislodge whatever may be causing the blockage. You can also try using a shop vac to unblock the drain. If these options don’t work, cut the electricity connection to your device before you go inside to try and remove anything that’s stuck. If you still can’t find the culprit, call a professional. Your unit may be damaged.
