Like leaky faucets and running toilets, clogged drains are some of the most common plumbing problems. Depending on the contents and circumstances, they can range from a nuisance to a catastrophe. Thankfully, they don’t have to be an inevitability. If you’re mindful of the following tips, you shouldn’t get too much grief from your sinks, toilets, showers, or tubs.

How to Avoid Clogged Drains

1. Throw Food Scraps Away

Although kitchen disposals are designed to cut up food scraps, it doesn’t mean they should be used to mince every single piece. Continually using it like this creates buildup within the drain pipe. Instead, throw them away in the trash or your compost bin. 

2. Dispose of Grease in the Trash

The biggest contributor to clogged drains is excess grease. It builds up along the edges of the pipe and eventually attracts more fats. If you’re frying food or roasting meat, pour or scoop out the oils and put any in a separate container for later disposal. It also helps to wipe down greasy dishes with a paper towel before washing them. 

3. Keep Hygiene Products Out of the Toilet

When it comes to diapers, baby wipes, tampons, or pads, always throw them in the trash. Since they’re often made from cotton and cotton by-products, they’re prone to expansion once they’re wet, which hinders the flow of water and waste. Furthermore, if you have a septic system, the plastic linings are not biodegradable and will fill up the tank and prevent the bacteria from breaking the material down.

4. Use Drain Strainers

To keep out as much excess food as possible, use a little drain strainer. Made from either stainless steel or silicone, these are small, inexpensive, yet effective products. In the showers and tubs, they’re also perfect for catching strands of hair.

5. Act Early

Finally, if you notice a drain starting to slow down, act quickly. Don’t wait for the situation to worsen. The best way to tackle clogs is through mechanical means like a plunger or a drain snake. If those don’t work, have a professional use a water jet. Don’t rely on chemical drain cleaners; they’re often too caustic and will ruin the piping instead.

If you’ve been trying to prevent clogged drains but still experience issues, Taylor’s Drain & Sewer Service will help. For more than 40 years, they’ve provided drain cleaning, inspections, and maintenance for residents and businesses in Lincoln, NE. Their technicians have both the training and technology to tackle the most complicated drain issues. Having a problem with your septic system? They offer septic pumping as well. For more information about their drain services, visit their website or call (402) 474-5213.