Clogged drains are a nuisance. The most obvious reason you would want to avoid them is because clogs cause your water to drain slowly, making it difficult for you to clean dishes, wash your hands, or perform other common daily tasks. However, a clogged drain has more consequences than you might even be aware of.
For instance, if there is standing water in your sink, tub, or shower, it is an invitation for pests such as flies, mosquitos, and cockroaches. A clogged drain also leads to bacteria growth that can cause diseases or allergies. Then there’s the smell, not to mention the fact that a seemingly small problem, like a clogged drain, could cause more severe plumbing issues down the line.
With these consequences in mind, it makes more sense to prevent clogged drains than to repair them. Here are three easy ways to prevent a clogged drain:
1. Don’t put the wrong things in your garbage disposal. Garbage disposals are incredibly convenient because they easily grind up food waste, but there are some things you should never put in there if you want to avoid a clogged drain. Do not put eggshells, potato skins, banana peels, coffee grounds, rice, animal bones, or nuts in your garbage disposal.
2. Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. Grease and oil will stick to the sides of your pipes and clog your sink. It isn’t easy to clean them out, so always dispose of these items correctly by putting them in a container and throwing them in the garbage.
3. Use a hair catcher in your shower or tub. Hair is one of the main culprits of clogged drains, especially if you have long hair. Instead of letting it get tangled up in your drain, use a screen or hair catcher. You can find these at a very cheap price, and they go a long way in protecting your drains.