Garbage Disposal vs. Composting: Which Is Better for Your Kitchen?

In this brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter, we break down the pros, cons, and practicalities so that you can decide what’s best for your kitchen – and your lifestyle. If you ever need a trained and uniformed plumber, the pros at Texas Rooter are always happy to help.

Why Throwing Food in the Trash Should Be the Last Option

Before we compare composting and garbage disposals, let’s address the one option that’s clearly the worst: tossing food into the garbage.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), food waste makes up about 24% of what ends up in landfills. As it decomposes, food waste releases methane, a greenhouse gas more than 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

That’s bad news for both the environment and your conscience. By choosing a better alternative, you’re doing your part to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

Option 1: The Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal is a kitchen classic for a reason. It’s convenient, fast, and helps keep your trash cans cleaner. Installed under the sink, a garbage disposal grinds food waste into tiny particles that are more easily flushed down the drain with water.

While the garbage disposal is great for most food scraps, it’s not designed for everything. Fibrous foods (like celery), bones, and grease can cause jams, clogs, or dull the blades over time. You’ll want to periodically clean the unit and handle maintenance for best results.

Moreover, if your disposal is making strange noises, draining slowly, or not grinding efficiently, then it may be time to call for plumbing repair service in Hurst. Using a damaged or outdated unit can cause plumbing problems that cost more than a quick repair.

Option 2: Composting

Garbage disposals are convenient, but if you like the idea of turning waste into something useful, then composting might be for you.

A compost bin lets you recycle organic waste (like fruit peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and even some paper products) into nutrient-rich soil. It’s great for gardens, flower beds, or even indoor plants.

Composting takes a bit more effort than using a garbage disposal, but it’s one of the most eco-friendly ways to handle food waste. Instead of sending scraps down the drain, you’re turning them into something valuable.

Which Option Fits You Best?

If you want something quick and low-maintenance, a garbage disposal is tough to beat. It’s a convenient, sanitary solution for everyday food scraps and helps keep your kitchen cleaner. Just be mindful of what you put in it, and schedule regular maintenance with a plumber or urgent repair if you notice slow drains or unusual sounds.

If you’re an avid gardener, love sustainability projects, or have the space for an outdoor bin, then composting can be incredibly rewarding. It takes a little more effort, but you’ll feel great knowing you’re turning waste into something useful.

Hire a Plumber Today

No matter which route you choose, keeping your kitchen plumbing in top shape is key. If your disposal starts leaking, clogging, or simply quits working, then call or message Texas Rooter to get in touch.

We are proud to offer a wide range of plumbing service, from a quick repair or garbage disposal replacement to comprehensive plumbing installations. Our team is ready to take your call or message today.