When it comes to drains, some people think that “out of sight, out of mind” is the general rule. It’s tempting to discard of unwanted substances in the sink or down the toilet, but this practice can clog up the pipes and cost you money. Here are four substances that professional plumbers say should never get drained or flushed.

4 Materials You Shouldn’t Put Down Your Drain

1. Feminine Hygiene Products

While it may be tempting to dispose of used hygiene products by flushing them, this is one of the surest ways to cause clogs. These products are designed to absorb, so they’ll expand and block up your plumbing. Always put them in the trash can where they belong.

2. Flushable Wipes

Although these products are marketed as flushable, they’re anything but. Inorganic and not as thin as toilet paper, they won’t break down or disintegrate once flushed, leading to obstructions in the pipes. 

3. Grease & Fat

After cooking, put excess grease in a container rather than pouring it down the sink. Although it may be liquid when it goes down, it will harden as it cools, creating a solid mass that will block other food scraps and contribute to bad smells.

4. Dental Floss

Although dental floss is thin and small, letting it wash down the sink or flushing it in the toilet is a big mistake for the health of your plumbing system. Pieces of floss will mingle with hair to form stringy wads that will eventually clog the drain. Plus, floss isn’t biodegradable, so it’ll stick around for a long time unless you get a plumber to remove it.

If you’ve accidentally flushed the wrong items and need someone to fix a clogged drain, get help from Quality Plumbing in Honolulu, HI. Since 2007, these plumbers have performed both residential and commercial work, earning themselves a reputation for promptness with their same-day and 24-7 emergency services. Learn more about their range of services, including leak detection, broken pipe repair, and bathroom remodeling, online, and call (808) 384-0412 to schedule an appointment today.