10 Things to Never Pour Down the Drain Spokane Valley, Washington

10 Things to Never Pour Down the Drain

Keeping drains clear and unclogged can be a challenge, especially when we’re unsure about what’s safe to pour down the sink. Here’s a list of ten common substances you should never pour down the drain if you want to avoid costly plumbing issues. Protecting your plumbing starts with knowing what to keep out!

1. Grease, Fats, and Oils

Cooking oils, bacon grease, and other fats might seem harmless when they’re hot and liquid, but once they cool, they solidify. Over time, these hardened oils can build up inside your pipes, leading to stubborn blockages. Instead, pour them into a container, let them solidify, and throw them away in the trash.

2. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are another notorious culprit for clogging pipes. They don’t dissolve in water and tend to clump together in drains, forming blockages. Try adding coffee grounds to compost instead, or dispose of them in the trash.

3. Eggshells

Eggshells can break down into small, gritty pieces that easily cling to any grease or debris in your pipes, creating a sludge that blocks water flow. Toss eggshells in the compost or trash instead of the sink.

4. Flour

Flour mixed with water forms a sticky paste—just imagine what it does inside your pipes! This can lead to clogs, especially if it combines with other debris in the drain. Dispose of flour in the garbage instead of down the sink.

5. Medications

Pouring unused medications down the drain is harmful to the environment, as they can contaminate waterways and impact marine life. Many communities offer drop-off programs for safely disposing of unused medications—take advantage of these to keep your drains and the environment safe.

6. Household Cleaning Products

Some household cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can corrode pipes, especially if you have older plumbing. Additionally, these chemicals can harm local water systems. Dispose of cleaning products properly, and try using eco-friendly options when possible.

7. Paint

Paint, varnishes, and thinners are full of toxic chemicals that should never go down the drain. They can stick to pipes, cause blockages, and leach harmful chemicals into the water supply. Contact your local waste disposal facility for guidance on properly disposing of paint products.

8. Produce Stickers

Tiny produce stickers might seem harmless, but they don’t dissolve in water and can stick to the sides of pipes or clog screens at water treatment plants. Always peel stickers off produce before washing, and throw them in the trash.

9. Rice and Pasta

Rice and pasta absorb water and swell even after cooking. When they end up in your drain, they can expand and clog pipes, especially if they mix with other debris. Toss any leftover rice or pasta in the trash to avoid trouble down the line.

10. Chemical Drain Cleaners

It may seem ironic, but chemical drain cleaners can cause damage to your pipes over time. These harsh chemicals can eat away at plumbing and are often unnecessary for minor clogs. Instead, try natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar, or use a drain snake for stubborn clogs.

Keeping these items out of your drains will help prevent clogs, keep your pipes in good condition, and even protect the environment. For any stubborn clogs or plumbing issues, reach out to a professional plumber to help keep your plumbing in top shape!

Need help with a drain issue? Contact us today to schedule a service!