As any plumber will confirm, it is much easier to clog a drain pipe than to unclog it. Therefore, make a point to only flush approved materials. Otherwise, you could face an inconvenient blockage that puts one of your fixtures out of commission while you wait for professional drain cleaning. To help you avoid trouble, below are some common items that shouldn't go down the drain or toilet.

What Substances Could Easily Clog Your Drains?

1. FOGs

Fats, oils, and grease are a cooking trio collectively known as FOGs. While they can be liquid at certain temperatures, they harden as they cool, which can create an impassable barrier within your pipes. Additionally, they can trap other scraps, like food residue and hair, that come down after them. Instead of sending FOGs down the drain, collect them in a disposable can or plastic container and discard them in the waste bin. 

2. Fibrous Plant Waste

Stringy, fibrous food waste such as corn husks, celery, and onion skins can wreak havoc on your drains and garbage disposal. These items are hard to chop and tend to wrap themselves around the disposal's spindle. Extraction could require the services of a plumber. Therefore, toss them into the trash instead. Better yet, add them to a compost pile that will eventually nourish your garden.

3. Personal Hygiene Products

Sanitary napkins, tampons, and baby wipes should all be disposed of in the garbage can instead of flushed down the toilet. The absorbent materials that they are made of cause them to expand in water, leading to clogs. This can be especially problematic for homeowners with a septic system because they do not break down the way that human solid waste does. Instead, they take up space in your tank and require you to have it pumped more frequently.

You should also not flush dental floss as this wiry substance will create a net that will make it harder for other materials to travel through your plumbing.

If you need a quality plumber to handle an unfortunate drain issue, contact Steve's Plumbing & Heating in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. They offer 24/7 emergency services throughout Wood County and the surrounding areas. They also specialize in AC and furnace repair. Learn more about the company on their website. Call (715) 421-1800 for a repair quote or to discuss your needs with an experienced plumber.