Dealing with a clogged drain is a nuisance, but it’s not an uncommon occurrence. Plumbers can tackle the issue relatively quickly depending on the severity of the blockage. There are some steps, however, that you can take to prevent them from happening in the first place. By avoiding these common habits, your drains will stay clear.

What Causes Clogged Drains?

1. Letting Drain Stoppers Clog

Drain stoppers do an excellent job of preventing hair and other debris from flowing into the pipes. Over time, though, that debris accumulates to the point where the stopper is no longer useful. In fact, the hair caught in the trap could create a clog of its own. To avoid calling for emergency plumbing services, make it a routine to clean the stopper at least once a week if you have long hair that tends to collect.

2. Rinsing the Wrong Items

It’s easy to unknowingly rinse improper items down the kitchen drain. If you’re cooking with grease, fat, or butter, for example, those substances may end up getting rinsed away while you’re cleaning pots and pans. They can also accumulate inside the pipes and cause substantial, stubborn blockages that cause backups that only a plumber can resolve. Instead of rinsing them away, collect these substances in a piece of foil or a jar so you can dispose of them in the trash.

3. Flushing Improper Objects

It’s not unusual for family members to flush items such as hygiene products or baby wipes down the toilet. The problem is that these substances aren’t designed to disintegrate in the pipes. When they don’t break down all the way, they become lodged inside the plumbing and could cause significant issues with your system. Plumbers suggest only flushing waste and toilet paper. If you have kids in the house, consider installing a toilet lock to prevent them from sending toys and other objects down the system.

Dealing with stubborn clogged drains is a job for the experts at B&B Plumbing & Heating in Oxford, OH. These plumbers have served the community since 1985, providing reliable repairs for leaking pipes and leaky faucets. They also tackle other issues, such as water softener and water heater repairs. Visit them online to learn more about their full list of services, or give them a call at (513) 523-4010 to schedule an appointment.