These Common Items Clog Drains Instantly… You Should NEVER Pour Them Down the Sink
When you’re cleaning up after a meal, it’s tempting to rinse everything down the sink, especially when you’re in a rush. However, not everything is meant to go down your drain. In fact, some common items can clog your drains instantly. By being aware of what these are, you can save yourself a lot of trouble and avoid costly repairs.
Grease and Oils
Firstly, if you’ve ever poured grease or cooking oils down the sink, you might want to rethink that habit. As these liquids cool, they solidify, clinging to the insides of your pipes. Over time, this can lead to significant blockages. Instead, you should pour grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash once it solidifies.
Moreover, even if you wash down grease with hot water, it won’t prevent the clogging. Eventually, the grease will cool down further down your pipes, causing the same issue. So, it’s better to avoid pouring it down the sink altogether.
Coffee Grounds
Another culprit that seems harmless but can instantly clog your drains is coffee grounds. You might think they’re fine because they’re small and seem to wash away easily. However, coffee grounds tend to stick together and to the sides of your pipes. Over time, they can accumulate and create a tough blockage.
Instead of flushing them down the sink, consider adding coffee grounds to your compost pile. They’re great for your garden as they add nitrogen to the compost, benefiting plant growth.
Raw Eggs
Pouring raw eggs down the sink might seem harmless, but they can coat the pipes and, over time, begin to decay, leading to unpleasant odors. Moreover, raw eggs can act as a binder, catching and holding onto other debris that goes down your drain, contributing to blockages.
A better approach is to ensure all raw egg remnants are thrown in the trash or used in compost. This simple step can help keep your drains flowing smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do if I accidentally poured grease down the sink?
If you’ve already poured grease down the sink, pour a mixture of hot water and dish soap down the drain to help break up the grease. Do this regularly to prevent buildup. However, if you notice slow drainage, it might be time to call a professional plumber.
2. Can I pour liquid oils down the sink if I use hot water?
Even with hot water, liquid oils can solidify in your pipes or further down the sewer line, leading to blockages. It’s best to avoid pouring any oils down the sink.
3. Are there any safe items to pour down the sink?
Most liquids that are water-soluble, such as vinegar or lemon juice, are safe to pour down the sink. When in doubt, think about whether the substance might solidify or accumulate. If it does, it’s better to dispose of it another way.
By being mindful of what you pour down your sink, you can keep your drains clear and avoid unexpected plumbing disasters. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to your sink. Taking a few extra moments to properly dispose of kitchen waste can save you time and money in the long run.