Things That Should Never Go Down Your Drain (But Often Do)

It’s quite easy to treat your drains like a catch-all for whatever’s left behind after cooking, cleaning, or brushing your teeth. However, those everyday habits can lead to some serious plumbing issues. As the authority on drain cleaning in Miami Beach, FL, Bradley Plumbing & Gas, we know that staying ahead of drain problems beats scrambling for a quick fix later. Knowing what not to put down your drain can save you from clogs, bad odors, and even costly repairs.

1. Grease, Oil, and Fat

After frying up a delicious meal, you might be tempted to pour the leftover grease down the kitchen sink. Don’t. Grease cools and hardens inside your pipes, eventually leading to stubborn clogs that often require help from a drain specialist. Instead, collect it in a container and toss it in the trash once it solidifies.

2. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds may seem harmless, but they tend to clump together in water and cling to pipe walls. Over time, this buildup can slow drainage. Regular upkeep, such as scheduling a professional drain cleaning service, helps keep everything flowing smoothly. It’s still best to compost them or toss them in the trash.

3. Hair and Soap Scum

In the bathroom, hair is one of the most common causes of drain blockages. When a buildup happens, drain jetting is a powerful and effective method to restore flow quickly and effectively. To prevent clogs, use a drain screen to catch hair before it goes down.

4. “Flushable” Wipes

Residential drain cleaning experts warn that, despite the label, most wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They linger in pipes and can cause severe blockages in your home and the municipal sewer system. Stick to toilet paper only, and throw wipes in the trash.

5. Food Scraps and Starches

Even if you have a garbage disposal, food items like rice, pasta, and potato peels can expand in water and clog your pipes. Over time, this buildup can slow drainage and lead to blockages deep in the system. In cases like these, drain jetting offers a powerful way to clear the pipes.

Protect Your Pipes with Professional Help

Being mindful of what goes down your drains is the first step, but if you’re already dealing with slow drains or backups, it’s time to call in the residential and commercial drain cleaning experts. Bradley Plumbing & Gas offers expert drain cleaning services that can clear blockages quickly and safely. Don’t let a simple clog turn into a plumbing emergency. Contact Bradley Plumbing & Gas today to schedule a service!