Clogged drains can be an exasperating problem—and one that you might even need professional help to resolve. At True Flow Plumbing, we’re all about that professional help for Los Angeles and Orange County area residents, but we understand that you may be hesitant to take that step. That’s why the best option is to learn how to prevent clogged drains to begin with. These tips will help you do just that. We’ll also go over what’s safe (and unsafe) to send through your drains.
General Tips to Prevent Clogged Drains
Avoiding clogs is all about keeping drain-unsafe material from slipping down the drain, whether you’re talking about the shower, the toilet, or the kitchen sink. Let’s go over some tips that apply to most drains.
- Use strainers or drain catchers. This isn’t applicable for your toilet, of course, but otherwise, cover your drains with products designed to catch hair, food, and other objects. Clean them out on a regular basis to avoid water backups.
- Run hot water regularly. Hot water can help prevent the buildup of soaps and oils, so take the time to run it for 30 seconds or so.
- Only let drain-safe items in. Be mindful that things like grease, coffee grounds, and “flushable” wipes don’t belong in your pipes, as they build up to create stubborn blockages. When in doubt, it’s always safer for your plumbing to throw it in the trash can.
- Get regular inspections by a professional. This is especially valuable for homes with older drainage systems, but getting regular inspections as part of a sewage maintenance package can help anyone catch problems early. Include periodic cleanings in the plan to avoid unexpected clogs.
Preventing Kitchen Drain Clogs
In the kitchen, there are two types of people: those with a garbage disposal and those without. If your kitchen sink is not thus equipped, you know you need to be careful. Food absolutely needs to go into the trash or the compost bin. But whether you have a garbage disposal or not, you should scrape food off before putting your dinner dishes into the sink. Even with a garbage disposal, you want to get as much food off as possible to avoid clogs. Certain foods are particularly unsafe (even if you have a garbage disposal), like rice and pasta—both can expand when wet, potentially clogging the drain.
Preventing Bathroom Drain Clogs
Hair. Nothing clogs bathroom drains quite like hair. We’ve already talked about using a trap, filter, or strainer, but it bears repeating. Still, some hair is likely to slip through, regardless of your best efforts. Get a brush or drain snake to use monthly (or more often) to get the hair out and keep your drain clean. Beyond that, take care with chemicals. You might not think much of cleansing products going down the drain, but they can cause problems, especially in large amounts.
Safe DIY Drain Cleaning Solutions
The classic baking soda and vinegar combo can help clear minor buildup—but it’s not a cure-all. Using it too often or in large amounts can actually lead to residue if not flushed thoroughly. We mentioned this above, but don’t neglect to try hot water. You can even boil it on the stove before pouring it down your drains. There’s no risk of damage, and you may find some great results. Be careful with harsh chemicals, even if they claim to be safe for your pipes. Some can cause damage, in addition to posing a danger to your skin and eyes. Accidental ingestion is also a genuine concern.
What’s Safe (and Not Safe) for Your Drains
When in doubt, assume everything is unsafe for your drains unless you find out otherwise. That’s one of the best ways to prevent your drains from clogging.
Safe to Pour
- Water and other liquids
- Mild soaps
- Vinegar
- Baking soda (small amounts)
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Soap/shampoo/conditioner (in normal use amounts)
- Shaving cream
Keep Out of the Drains
- Paint and paint thinner
- Motor oil
- Food grease, fats, and oils
- Medications
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Most food, including pasta, rice, and vegetables
- Flour
- Bones
- Cotton balls
- Clumps of hair
- Feminine hygiene products
- Wipes (even those labeled flushable)
- Contraceptives
- Nail polish remover
When to Call True Flow Plumbing
Knowing how to prevent clogged drains is valuable, but so is knowing when to call in the pros. Not every drainage issue can be solved with elbow grease and a YouTube tutorial, although you can be confident that your diligence in following the tips in this guide should generally reduce the need for professional intervention. But when drainage problems persist despite your efforts to clear them on your own, the best decision you can make is to reach out for help—it sure beats the frustration of dealing with backed-up pipes on a daily basis. True Flow Plumbing has a reputation for quick responses and quality work in Los Angeles and throughout the Orange County area.
Keep Your Drains Safe with Our Tips
Our downloadable guide to drain safety gives you the information you need to prevent clogs throughout your home. But if prevention and DIY fixes aren’t getting the job done, you won’t regret reaching out. True Flow Plumbing is eager to prove why we’ve become a trusted partner to Orange County area residents. Call today to schedule your drain opening or other plumbing service.
