Prevent sink drain clogs with these plumbing tips!
Everyone wants to prevent a problem from arising if they can, and sink drain clogs are definitely something you want to avoid if possible. The good news is that there are lots of precautions you can take to avoid sink clogs and prevent your need for calling a plumber. Read through these plumbing tips to prevent your next sink clog.
Things to avoid putting down the kitchen sink
A good rule of thumb to follow when determining if something is safe to put down the kitchen sink is if you are questioning it, you should probably throw it in the trash instead. Depending on whether you have a garbage disposal or not, what is safe to dispose of in your kitchen sink varies. However, some common items to avoid no matter what include:
- Oil, fat, and grease
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Small seeds and grains
- Anything non-food relate
Things to avoid with your bathroom sink
Bathroom sinks are usually safer because (hopefully) you’re not consuming or preparing any food in this space. However, there are some things to do in your bathroom to prevent a sink clog. Making sure you clean out hair, soap scum, toothpaste, and other scum from the drain and stopper regularly will help prevent too many of these types of particles from going down your drain and causing a clog. Instead of washing hair down the drain, wipe it up with a paper towel and throw it in the trash. These simple steps will help you avoid a real mess down the road.
Best practices to avoid clogs altogether
Aside from avoiding putting certain things down your drains, you can also perform these simple steps to keep your drains clear and healthy.
- Pour hot water down your sink drain periodically – this will help break down any build-up and keep your pipes clear
- Use strainers in kitchen sinks – this will catch any unwanted food that may try to slip down the drain and makes it simple to clean out
- Use baking soda – this miracle worker can clean your entire sink and your drain, leaving your drain smelling better in the process
- Pour vinegar down your drain – this natural cleaning solution actually helps remove build-up without harming your pipes
- Use caution with store-bought drain cleaners – many of these contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous to you and can cause long-term damage to your drains and pipes
With all of these preventative measures to work with, a periodic sink clog could still occur. If it does, be sure to contact us to schedule an appointment where we will come out and inspect the clog and suggest the best course of action. We are happy to help answer any of your kitchen and bathroom plumbing questions, so contact us should any problems arise.