Many people inadvertently develop bad habits around the home, and sometimes these routines can cause major issues with the plumbing. Suddenly, you turn around, and your kitchen sink drain is clogged, or your toilet is backed up. Here are safe and effective approaches to keep your pipes operating smoothly in the new year.

Drain Strainers, a Good Idea

This is an affordable tip that professional plumbers often recommend. Drain strainers are available for the kitchen, bathroom and shower to catch those things that sometimes make their way into our drains.

Coffee grounds and food scraps are just two common items that can enter your home’s plumbing system and eventually clog the drains. A drain strainer for the sink is a popular option, and you can choose between flexible silicone or traditional stainless steel.

A drain strainer for the shower/tub is another useful product to prevent hair from going into and wrapping around the drain. The bathroom sink can also benefit from a drain strainer to stop hair and dental floss from escaping.

A Slow Drain — Now What?

Have you ever noticed a slow drain? It can happen, and plumbers have a solution. The slow drain may be due to a buildup of soap residue or grease. Pour boiling water down the drain to dissolve it. You could also try a sink plunger for a minor clogged drain.

The tried-and-true baking soda and white vinegar mix is another approach for clogged drains. It’s eco-friendly, too. Professional plumbers advise pouring a half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a half a cup of vinegar. Let the ingredients sit for 15-30 minutes, allowing them to break down gunk. Then, rinse thoroughly with hot water.

The Toilet Cannot Flush Everything

Some folks use their toilets as the ultimate trash machines, believing they can make just about any unwanted thing disappear with a simple flush. Toilets can only do so much, and even excess toilet paper can cause clogging.

Licensed plumbers remind their customers not to flush foreign objects, such as cotton swabs, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, medication or even cat litter. Toilets weren’t designed to break down these items and cannot do so.

Don’t Let Clogs Disrupt Your Daily Routine

We’re looking forward to a new year, and life shouldn’t be so hard, but clogged drains can happen to good people. If you live in Mesa, AZ, reach out to our friendly team of experts at The Plumber AZ for drain cleaning services.