Many know that clogs in toilets and sinks are often caused by hair and foreign objects that make their way down the drain, but what about those unexpected items and substances that creep into your plumbing and wreak havoc before you know it. Here are some of the most common unexpected things to watch out for when it comes to your toilets, sinks, and tubs.
Sink and Tub Drainage
Grease
Many forget that when pouring grease in its warm, liquid form down a drain, even with copious amounts of hot water, that grease can easily solidify further down in your drains and even attract other food particles, causing a major blocking in your drainage system. Be sure to let grease solidify in your dishes and frying pans and to then dispose of it in the garbage instead.
Soap scum
Soap scum is the solid white residue that occurs when soap and hard water mix. Not only does it collect on the walls of your bath tub and shower, but it collects in your drainage system as well. This soap scum can not only cause blockages itself but also attract other debris like dirt and skin flakes, leading to faster buildup that could lead to a blockage.
Dirt and skin flakes
Did you know that even the dirt and skin flakes that come off in the shower can lead to drain blockages? These types of debris can stick to soap scum or accumulate with other drain-clogging elements like hair to create major clogs.
Toilet drainage
Toilet paper
You’d be surprised at how easily toilet paper can cause a clog in your toilet, and it remains the number one cause of toilet paper clogs. When in doubt, flush only smaller amounts of toilet tissue at one time, and use a few flushes rather than one big flush if necessary.
Thicker bathroom wipes
Some types of bathroom wipes might claim to be flushable but still prove to be too hard on your toilet’s drainage system. Be sure to invest in smaller bathroom wipes that will disintegrate easily if you are going to use bathroom wipes. You should never flush paper towels down the toilet, as these are designed to do just the opposite of disintegrate when they come in contact with water. In addition, keep in mind that flushable disposable toilet bowl cleaners (of the variety that attach to the head of a plastic handle) can also be too hard on your toilet’s drainage system.
