If you’ve just moved to Korea or are staying short-term, you’ll quickly notice that everyday home appliances and fixtures work a little differently here. Just like we covered in our guides “How to Use a Korean Microwave in 2025: Buttons, Settings & Everyday Tips” and “How to Use Korean AC and Ondol Heating Floors in 2025: Settings, Tips & Cultural Norms”, knowing how your home equipment works can make your life a lot easier, and save you from costly mistakes.
One of the biggest surprises for many newcomers is the kitchen sink, there’s no garbage disposal, and in some homes, there isn’t even a built-in strainer. Since Korean plumbing systems are more sensitive, you’ll need to change a few kitchen habits to keep your sink clean, your pipes clear, and your kitchen smelling fresh.
This guide will explain why Korean homes don’t have garbage disposals, how to handle sinks without built-in strainers, and the best sink care practices to follow in any Korean home.
Why There Are No Garbage Disposals in Korea
Most Korean homes rely on a national food waste recycling system instead of in-sink disposals. Food waste is collected separately and turned into compost or animal feed. Allowing food scraps to go down the drain can:
Clog pipes quickly due to narrow plumbing
Cause unpleasant odors from trapped food residue
Lead to costly plumbing repairs
Violate building waste policies and lead to fines
Best Practices for Using Korean Sinks (With or Without a Strainer)
If You Have a Built-In Basket Strainer
Keep the basket in place while rinsing or washing dishes.
Empty the caught scraps into your food waste bin after each meal.
Rinse the basket and drain rim to prevent buildup.
If You Don’t Have a Built-In Strainer
Many smaller officetels, studios, or older apartments don’t provide a fixed metal or plastic strainer, meaning anything you rinse can go straight down the drain.
Solution: Use cloth or disposable mesh sink filter bags.
How to Use Them:
Place the filter bag inside the drain opening or over a small plastic/metal cup that fits in the drain.
Scrape large food scraps from plates into your food waste bin first.
Rinse dishes with the filter in place so it catches smaller bits.
When the bag is full or at the end of the day, tie it up and place it in your food waste bin.
Replace daily (more often in summer to avoid odors).
Where to Get Them:
Daiso, large supermarkets, and convenience stores
Online marketplaces like Coupang or Gmarket
Look for keywords: 싱크대 거름망 (sink strainer net) or 싱크대 거름망 주머니 (sink strainer bag)
Oil and Grease Disposal
Let oil or grease cool before disposing.
Pour it into a paper cup, empty milk carton, or old jar, then throw it into general waste.
Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before rinsing to prevent residue from sticking to pipes.
Weekly Drain Care
Pour boiling water down the drain once a week to help break down soap and residue.
For odors, sprinkle baking soda into the drain, add vinegar, let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.
Check for food particles stuck in the drain area and remove them promptly.
Extra Tips for Keeping Sinks Fresh
Keep a small, lidded food waste bin near your sink for convenience.
Empty food waste daily, especially in warmer months.
Avoid pouring soups, stews, or any liquids with food particles into the drain.
Only water should go down the drain, all solids should go into your food waste bin.
Final Tip: In Korea, your sink isn’t just for rinsing, it’s part of the waste separation system. By using filter bags or a strainer and following these habits, you’ll keep your kitchen clean, avoid plumbing issues, and stay on good terms with your landlord.
