
There are many items and particles you may not realize can clog your pipes. Drain clogs can be caused by several factors, but small items and build-up are the main contributors to drain issues. You can help to avoid items that clog drains by understanding what items to limit or never put down a drain. This blog will list 8 of the most common items that can clog your drains and tips on how to prevent them from clogging your system too.
1- Hair
The most common cause of a clog is hair. Especially in a bathtub or shower drain, loose hair can get wrapped around your drain stopper or collect in clumps that completely block the drain. As small hairs fall out while washing or rinsing your hair, they become coated with soap scum and can form an even bigger blockage.
The best way to prevent major hair clogs is to install a drain guard. This helps trap the hair before it goes into the drain so you can easily remove it and toss it in the trash. This may not stop all hair from entering your drain, but it will help reduce the risk of major clogs.
2- Grease
When cooking, it is tempting to pour grease down the drain when it is in liquid form, but once it hardens, you can face major blockages. You should never dump grease down the drain as it is extremely likely to stick to the sides of your pipes and hold on to other food particles as they slide down your pipes.
Wait for grease to become a solid and then wipe it with a paper towel that can be disposed of in a waste bin. You can also soak up grease while it is still a liquid with a paper towel or napkin.
3- Food Particles
Even for homes with garbage disposal, certain food waste should not be put down your drains. Certain food particles can stick to pipes and cause clogs over time. Potato peels, pasta, rice, and celery can all tangle together to create a stubborn block.
Try your best to remove food particles from your sink after cooking. Dispose of them in a compost or trash bin to avoid clogged drains. You can also utilize a food strainer/ drain stopper similar to your bathroom stopper, to keep small particles from getting into the drain and make it easier to remove food waste.
4- Soap Scum

While soap is safe to wash down your drains, it can build up over time and stick to other particles that wash down the drain. For homes or businesses hard water, soap, and minerals can clog together and accumulate in pipes. This can create an even small opening for water to drain through.
You can prevent soap scum build-up by having your drains cleaned regularly. Utilize vinegar and baking soda or have a plumber come in and perform a drain cleaning service.
5- Hygiene Products
Cotton balls, cotton swaps, dental floss, and wipes are items that should never be flushed or put down drains. These items are not designed to break down and can lead to a major plumbing problem. Even flushable wipes should not be put down your toilet as they can lead to water contamination and clogs in a sewer system. All of these items easily clump together, so it is best to put these items in the trash. Educate others in your household to throw these items away so that all of you are helping your drains to stay free and clear.
6- Excessive Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is designed to break down in water, but using too much can cause clogged drains and blockages in sewer pipes. Inadequate water flow and excess toilet paper are not a good combination if you want to avoid drain clogs.
Use toilet paper conservatively or flush smaller amounts at a time. Consider using a thinner option that is more easily dissolved.
7- Small Objects
Mistakes and accidents happen, including dropping inanimate objects down the drain. Hair accessories, toys, cosmetics, etc. will all block your drains from draining properly. Since it can be hard to avoid all accidents and drops of small items, install drain guards to keep out items that clog drains.
8- Construction Debris
During a home remodel or repairs, it is common for debris to fall to the floor and accumulate around your home. Debris can end up in your drains in large quantities and cause your drains to drain slower. During a project, you can cover your drains with a stopper, guard, plastic, or tape to help limit the amount of debris that will build up. Whether you are painting, sanding, or demolition, covering sinks and other drains will make clean-up easier. Limiting this debris will also help you to enjoy your new space without needing to solve a drain clog.

Solving Clogged Drains From Our Experts At Drain X
Our plumbers at Drain X can help you remedy drain and sewer clogs with ease. Our team is one of the leaders in the plumbing industry because we help homeowners and business owners solve the problem quickly. No matter the scale of your problem, our technicians have the tools needed to make it right. Reach out to us to schedule a service today!
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