Drain clogs can be quite a frustrating problem that can disrupt your daily routine. A blocked shower drain or a clogged sink in the kitchen can lead to unpleasant odors, slow-draining water, and even costly repairs if left unchecked.
Fortunately, with a few simple habits, you can avoid these issues and keep your plumbing running smoothly. Here are some tips to help you prevent clogs in your home.
1. Dispose of Grease Properly to Prevent Clogs
One of the most common causes of kitchen drain clogs is grease. When you pour grease or oil down the sink, it may seem harmless because it’s in liquid form. However, as it cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes, leading to blockages over time.
Instead, pour grease into a container, let it cool, and throw it in the trash. This simple step can save you from the hassle of dealing with stubborn clogs later. If grease has already caused a problem, consider scheduling plumbing drain cleaning to clear your pipes effectively.
2. Use a Drain Cover for Added Protection
In both the kitchen and bathroom, a drain cover is a simple but powerful tool to prevent clogs. In the kitchen, a mesh screen can catch food scraps before they go down the drain.
In the bathroom, a drain cover helps trap hair and soap scum, which are major culprits behind clogged shower and sink drains. Cleaning the cover regularly is key to keeping water flowing freely.
3. Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items in the Bathroom
Toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper—nothing more. Flushing items like wipes, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels can quickly lead to clogs.
Even products labeled as “flushable” can cause problems because they don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. By disposing of these items in the trash, you can avoid costly repairs to your plumbing system.
4. Run Hot Water After Each Use
One simple way to keep your drains clear is to run hot water down them after each use. This is particularly helpful in the kitchen, where hot water can flush out any grease or food particles before they harden and stick to the pipes.
In the bathroom, hot water helps break up soap residue and keeps it from accumulating over time.
5. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Garbage Disposal
While a garbage disposal can handle many kitchen scraps, it’s not a catch-all for everything. Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery, coffee grounds, eggshells, or starchy items like pasta and rice down the disposal. These can create sticky buildups or jam the blades, leading to clogs.
To maintain your disposal, run cold water while using it and clean it regularly with ice cubes and a bit of vinegar. If your disposal causes frequent issues, contacting a professional in plumbing can help resolve the problem.
6. Clean Your Drains Regularly
Even with good cleaning habits, residue can easily build up in your pipes over time. Cleaning your drains regularly helps prevent small clogs from turning into major blockages. You can use baking soda and vinegar as a natural cleaning solution to remove buildup and follow it with hot water to flush it away.
For tougher issues or routine maintenance, professional plumbing issues can ensure your pipes stay in top condition.