Clogged and Dangerous: 5 Items to Keep Out of Your Drains

As a homeowner, you rely on your plumbing system to function properly, but clogged drains can quickly become a nightmare. Not only can they cause inconvenience, but they can also lead to more serious issues like water damage, mold growth, and even health hazards. The good news is that many clogged drains can be prevented by being mindful of what you pour down your sink, shower, and toilet.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 items to keep out of your drains, and provide tips on how to properly dispose of them. 

ITEM #1: GREASE AND OIL 

Grease and oil are two of the most common culprits when it comes to clogged drains. When you pour grease or oil down your drain, it may seem like it’s disappearing, but in reality, it’s sticking to the walls of your pipes and building up over time. As more and more grease and oil accumulate, your pipes become narrower and narrower, eventually causing a blockage.

To avoid this, make sure to dispose of grease and oil properly. Pour cooled grease into a container and throw it away in the trash. For oil, check with your local recycling center to see if they accept used oil.

ITEM #2: FOOD SCRAPS 

Food scraps, especially those high in starch and protein, can cause serious clogs in your drains. Rice, pasta, and eggshells are all common offenders, as they don’t break down in water and can stick to the walls of your pipes.

Instead of pouring food scraps down your drain, compost them or throw them away in the trash. If you do accidentally pour food scraps down your drain, run hot water through your pipes to help dissolve any remaining particles.

ITEM #3: HAIR 

Hair is another common cause of clogged drains, especially in shower drains. When hair accumulates in your pipes, it can form a thick, impenetrable mat that prevents water from flowing through.

To prevent hair clogs, make sure to clean your shower drain regularly with a drain snake or plunger. You can also use a hair catcher or screen to catch hair before it goes down the drain.

ITEM #4: SANITARY PRODUCTS 

Sanitary products like wipes, tampons, and pads can cause serious clogs in your drains. These products don’t break down in water and can stick to the walls of your pipes, causing a blockage.

Instead of flushing sanitary products down your toilet, dispose of them in the trash. If you do accidentally flush something down your toilet, run hot water through your pipes to help dissolve any remaining particles.

ITEM #5: CHEMICALS 

Chemicals like paint, cleaning products, and medications can cause serious damage to your pipes and lead to clogs. These chemicals can corrode your pipes and cause them to narrow, making it easier for other items to get stuck.

To avoid this, dispose of chemicals properly. Check with your local recycling center to see if they accept hazardous waste, or throw them away in the trash.

Clogged drains can be a serious issue, but by being mindful of what you pour down your sink, shower, and toilet, you can prevent many clogs from occurring. 

Remember to dispose of grease and oil properly, compost food scraps, clean your shower drain regularly, dispose of sanitary products in the trash, and dispose of chemicals properly. If you do find yourself with a clogged drain, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.