How to Avoid a Drain Clog

A drain clog can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. A clogged drain is not only a nuisance, but it can also lead to water damage and even mold growth. Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to avoid a drain clog in the first place.

The most common cloggers of drains are hair, grease, and soap scum. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

Hair

When hair shedding from your head or body ends up in the drain, it can quickly lead to a clog. To avoid this, make sure to sweep or vacuum up any Shed hair around your sink area regularly. You should also consider installing a hair catcher in your drain to catch any escaping strands before they have a chance to cause a problem.

Grease

Grease from cooking can solidify in the pipe and cause a clog over time. To avoid this, don’t pour grease down the drain. Instead, let it cool and solidify in a can or container before throwing it away.

Soap Scum

Soap scum is the film that builds up on pipes after water mixes with soap. This scum can slowly build up over time and eventually block the flow of water entirely. To prevent this, use less soap when showering or washing your hands and invest in a good quality drain cleaner that will break down soap scum buildup.

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding a pesky drain clog. However, if you do find yourself dealing with a clog, there are some things you can do to try and break it up yourself.

How to Get Rid of a Clogged Drain

First, try using hot water. Boil a pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain, being careful not to splash yourself. The heat can help break up grease buildup and make it easier for water to flow through the pipe again. Second, try using baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by half a cup of vinegar. Plug the drain and let sit for 30 minutes before flushing with hot water. The combination of these two ingredients can help break up soap scum buildup. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to snake the drain yourself or call a professional plumber for assistance.

A clogged drain can ruin your day—but it doesn’t have to! There are some easy things you can do to avoid a clog in the first place, like sweeping up hair regularly and being mindful of what you pour down the drain. And if you do find yourself dealing with a clog, there are some DIY solutions you can try before calling in reinforcements. With just a little bit of prevention and know-how, you can keep your drains flowing freely all year round!