When it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing system, one key aspect is understanding what can go down the drain and what can’t. Many common household items, when disposed of incorrectly, can clog drains, severely damage your sewer line, or even contaminate your drinking water supply. To help you avoid these problems, we’ve compiled a list of five things you should never put down the drain.
Cooking Oils and Grease
Cooking oils and grease are always among the things you should never put down the drain. When these substances cool, they solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes, gradually building up over time and causing blockages. So why can’t grease go down the drain? Because, unlike other liquid waste, it doesn’t remain a liquid. Instead, dispose of your cooking oils and grease in a sealed container and throw it in the trash.
Coffee Grounds and Food Waste
While it may seem convenient to toss coffee grounds or potato peels into the garbage disposal, these items actually create a sludgy substance that can easily cause a clog. The same goes for produce stickers; those tiny pieces of plastic can accumulate in your pipes and lead to big problems. Instead, consider composting your organic kitchen waste or disposing of it with your regular trash.
Paper Products
Toilet paper is designed to break down in water, making it safe for your septic systems. However, other paper products like paper towels and flushable wipes are things you should never put down the drain. These items do not break down as quickly, if at all. Even though some products are labeled as “flushable,” they can still cause blockages in your pipes and should be disposed of in a trash bin.
Feminine Hygiene Products and Cotton Balls
Feminine hygiene products and cotton balls should never be flushed down the toilet. These items absorb water and expand, making them likely culprits for clogs. Always dispose of these items in the trash.
Kitty Litter and Flushable Cat Litter
Kitty litter, even if it’s labeled as “flushable,” can be one of the most shocking things you should never put down the drain. The clumping properties that make kitty litter effective also make it a problem for your plumbing. When it gets wet, it expands and can block your pipes.
Protect Your Plumbing With Regular Drain Cleaning
As a homeowner, it’s safe to say that you’re always busy. When cooking a meal or cleaning the dishes, you may be tempted to dump all of your leftover scraps down the drain and call it a day. However, there are some rules you should follow. So, what can go down the drain — and what can’t? Hopefully, this guide has helped you know what you should keep far away from your drains.
Now that you know what should never go down the drain, it’s essential to maintain your plumbing system with regular drain cleaning. This will help remove any buildup that may have accumulated over time and keep your drains flowing smoothly. If you’re experiencing issues with your drains, don’t wait until a small problem becomes a big one.
Contact Bumble Bee Plumbing for professional drain cleaning in Glendale, AZ, or the surrounding area! Our team of experienced plumbers is ready to help you maintain your home’s plumbing system and ensure it continues to work efficiently for years to come. We also offer drain repair in Phoenix, AZ, and the nearby communities if you need professional assistance with a frustrating plumbing issue.
Remember, when it comes to what can go down the drain, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Protect your home, your water supply, and the environment by disposing of waste properly.
