When it comes to keeping your drains flowing smoothly, it’s essential to know what shouldn’t go down the drain. From household items to personal care products, there are many things that can cause clogs and damage to your plumbing system.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common culprits and provide expert advice on what to avoid putting down your drains to prevent clogs and maintain a healthy plumbing system.

1. Don’t Flush Fats and Oils: Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can solidify in your pipes, causing clogs and backups. Instead, pour FOG into a heat-proof container and let it cool before disposing of it in the trash.
2. Avoid Sending Down Sanitary Products: Sanitary products like tampons, pads, and applicators can cause clogs and damage to your plumbing system. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or use biodegradable products that are designed to break down in water.
3. Don’t Drain Hair and Makeup: Hair and makeup can cause clogs and backups in your drains. Instead, use a drain screen or filter to catch hair and makeup particles before they enter your pipes.
4. Keep Food Scraps Out of the Drain: Food scraps like rice, beans, and pasta can expand in your pipes, causing clogs and backups. Instead, dispose of food scraps in the trash or compost them.
5. Don’t Flush Cotton Balls and Q-Tips: Cotton balls and Q-Tips can cause clogs and damage to your plumbing system. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or use biodegradable alternatives.
6. Avoid Pouring Chemicals Down the Drain: Chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and disinfectants can damage your pipes and cause clogs. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or use eco-friendly alternatives.
7. Don’t Send Down Plastic Straws: Plastic straws can cause clogs and damage to your plumbing system. Instead, opt for reusable straws or biodegradable alternatives.
8. Keep Paper Products Away: Paper products like paper towels, tissues, and toilet paper can cause clogs and backups in your drains. Instead, dispose of them in the trash or use biodegradable alternatives.
9. Don’t Flush Medications: Medications can contaminate your water supply and cause harm to aquatic life. Instead, dispose of them through a designated medication disposal program or take them to a pharmacy for proper disposal.
10. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest plumbing trends and best practices by reading industry publications, attending workshops, and participating in online forums. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and take proactive measures to prevent clogs and maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common culprits, you can prevent clogs and maintain a healthy plumbing system. Remember, prevention is key – stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead of the clog game. Don’t let your drains become clogged with the wrong items – stay smart and keep your drains flowing smoothly!