You can keep drains clear between cleanings by stopping debris before it goes down the drain. Strainers in sinks and tubs, keeping grease out of the kitchen sink, and flushing only toilet paper prevent most clogs.
Kitchen Sink Habits
- Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing
- Pour cooled grease into a container, not the sink
- Use a sink strainer to catch food bits
- Run plenty of water when using the garbage disposal
- Keep coffee grounds, eggshells, and rice out of the drain
Bathroom Habits
Hair is the main cause of bathroom sink and tub clogs. A simple hair catcher over the shower drain can stop much of it. Clean the catcher after each use or every few days. Wipe out bathroom sinks after shaving or brushing hair so loose strands do not wash down.
For toilets, flush only toilet paper. Wipes, paper towels, cotton swabs, and dental floss should go in the trash, even if the label says flushable.
Simple Maintenance
Once a week, run hot tap water down kitchen and bathroom drains for a minute to help move soap and light buildup. Remove and clean sink stoppers every few weeks. Refill floor drains and rarely used sinks with water so their traps do not dry out and let odors in.
Avoid relying on chemical drain cleaners. They can damage pipes over time and do not remove the root of the problem.
Know the Warning Signs
Slow drains, gurgling sounds, and bad smells are early hints that buildup is growing. Acting on these signs before a full clog forms is much easier than dealing with a sink full of standing water.
If a drain stays slow no matter what you try, a professional cleaning of the line can reset it. For advice on the drains that give your home the most trouble, you can get a plumber’s advice on problem drains at (833) 603-1840.