Blocked drains can cause significant inconvenience, and many blockages are the result of common household items. By being aware of these items and preventing them from entering your drainage system, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure smooth water flow throughout your home.

1. Food Waste

Kitchen sinks are often victims of food waste blockages. Items like coffee grounds, rice, pasta, and fibrous vegetables may seem harmless but can accumulate in the drain, leading to clogs. Fat, oil, and grease are particularly notorious for congealing in pipes. Although liquid when hot, they solidify as they cool, forming stubborn blockages. It’s best to avoid pouring grease down the drain and instead collect it in a container to dispose of properly.

2. Hair

In bathroom drains, hair is a primary culprit. Over time, loose strands of hair can accumulate and form a tangled mass, which combines with soap scum and other debris to create blockages. Installing drain covers in showers and sinks is an easy preventive measure to keep hair out of your drains.

3. Wet Wipes and Hygiene Products

Despite being labelled as “flushable,” many wet wipes do not break down like toilet paper and can cause severe clogs. Feminine hygiene products, nappies, and cotton wool also belong in the bin, not the toilet. These items absorb water and expand, making it difficult for them to pass through narrow pipes. It’s essential to dispose of them properly to prevent drain blockages.

4. Soap Scum

While soap is essential for cleaning, it can be a source of drainage issues. Soap scum is the residue left behind after soap dissolves in water. Over time, this residue builds up along the inner walls of pipes, mixing with other debris like hair, skin flakes, and dirt to form blockages. Regular cleaning and switching to liquid soap can help reduce soap scum build-up in your drains.

5. Foreign Objects

Small household items, like jewellery, toys, and other accidental drop-ins, can also obstruct drains. These objects can either block the pipe completely or catch onto other debris, exacerbating the problem. Using sink and shower guards is an effective way to prevent these from slipping into drains.

6. Toilet Paper Buildup

Toilet paper is designed to disintegrate in water, but using excessive amounts can still result in clogs, especially in older plumbing systems with narrower pipes. Be mindful of how much you flush at once, and consider opting for thinner toilet paper if you encounter frequent blockages.

7. Garden Debris

Outdoor drains are prone to clogging due to garden debris such as leaves, dirt, and small branches. Over time, these materials can accumulate in gutters and drains, leading to blockages that cause water to back up, potentially flooding outdoor spaces. Regularly clearing away garden debris is key to preventing such issues.

How to Prevent Household Drain Blockages

Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid blocked drains. Simple actions such as installing drain covers, being mindful of what you flush or wash down the sink, and regularly cleaning your drains can make a significant difference.

If you do experience persistent blockages, professional assistance may be necessary. It’s important to act quickly to avoid more severe plumbing issues like burst pipes or water damage.

For expert drain cleaning and maintenance services, reach out to Drain2ClearMK for a thorough inspection and solution to your drainage issues.