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Things You Should Never Put Down the Drain
September 27,2023

Things You Should Never Put Down the Drain

We are all guilty of treating our drains like garbage holes at some point. One of the common causes of blocked drains is mistreating our drains by putting unflushable items down the drains. While there are some things that can safely go down the drain, there are many things that can harm your drains and cause a host of problems. Mr. Rooter Plumbing provides you with a list of seven things that you should never put down your drain.

  • Grease, Fats, and Oils

Pouring grease, fats, or cooking oils down the drain might seem convenient, but as they cool and solidify, they can clog your pipes over time. These substances are among the most common culprits for kitchen plumbing woes. After cooking, allow the grease, fats, or cooking oils to cool down. Once the grease has solidified, you can dispose of it in your regular household trash.

  • Eggshells

Eggshells, despite their seemingly harmless nature, can create tiny granular deposits that contribute to clogs in your pipes.

  • Produce Stickers

Those small stickers on fruits and vegetables may seem insignificant, but they don't break down in water and can accumulate in your plumbing.

  • Flushable Wipes

Despite the name, "flushable" wipes can still lead to blockages in your sewer lines, as they don't disintegrate as easily as toilet paper. The safest and most responsible way to dispose of flushable wipes is to throw them in the trash. Place used wipes in a small plastic bag or a dedicated trash can with a lid to contain any odors or moisture.

  • Coffee Grounds

If you’re like most people, you’re more likely to dump your leftover coffee grounds down the sink. Coffee grounds might appear harmless, but they can accumulate and create a sludgy mess in your pipes, causing blockages. Coffee grounds are highly fibrous and tend to clump together as they make their way down the drains.

  • Condoms

Condoms are not biodegradable and can easily get caught in pipes, leading to obstructions and potential plumbing issues. If condoms manage to get past the pipes, they will most likely end up in water supply sources.

  • Medications

Flushing expired or unused medications down the toilet can introduce pharmaceuticals into the water supply and harm the environment. It's safer to dispose of medications through a local take-back program.

Other items that you should never put down the drains include:

  • Flushable kitty litter
  • Cotton balls and paper towels
  • Paint
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Rice and pasta
  • Cleaning solutions

Trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Drain Cleaning and Clogged Drain Line Repair

Perhaps your drains are blocked, and you’re looking for a professional plumbing service to clear the drains. Or maybe your drain line has collapsed as a result of aging or deteriorated pipes. No matter the cause of your drainage issues, it’s important to address them promptly to avoid inconveniences. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we take pride in offering high-quality drain cleaning and clogged drain line repair. We understand the frustration and inconvenience that clogged or damaged drain lines can cause. Our team of experienced plumbers is here to provide efficient and effective solutions to get your drainage system back in working order.