Maintaining a healthy plumbing system is essential for avoiding costly repairs, protecting the environment, and making sure that your home runs smoothly. One of the simplest ways to keep your plumbing in top shape is by knowing what can and cannot go down the drain. Improper disposal of common household items often leads to clogs, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your pipes.
At Anderson, we’ve seen firsthand the consequences of improper drain use in homes across San Diego, San Marcos, El Cajon, and surrounding areas. Here’s your ultimate guide to what you can safely flush or drain—and what to avoid.
What Can Safely Go Down the Drain
Knowing what’s safe to go down your drains is just as important as knowing what’s not. Proper disposal can prevent clogs and keep your plumbing system functioning properly.
In the Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most common places for drain misuse. Here’s what’s safe:
- Water: Whether it’s hot, cold, or warm, water is the only substance that should consistently flow down your drain.
- Minimal Food Scraps: If you have a garbage disposal, small food particles are generally fine. However, use cold water when running the disposal to prevent fats from sticking to your pipes.
- Dish Soap and Detergent: These products are designed to break down in water and are safe for kitchen drains.
Quick Tip: Always rinse dishes and cookware thoroughly before washing to remove grease and oils that may stick to your pipes.
In the Bathroom
Bathroom drains are susceptible to blockages from items that seem harmless. The following are safe to let flow:
- Toothpaste and Soap Residue: These dissolve in water and won’t clog your drains.
- Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash: In moderation, these products are fine for your plumbing, but too much can lead to buildup over time.
Note: While these items are safe, rinsing with warm water after use helps prevent residue buildup.
What Cannot Go Down the Drain
Improper disposal of certain items can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, resulting in clogged pipes, damage to municipal systems, and even environmental harm.
In the Kitchen
Some of the biggest offenders in kitchen drains include:
- Grease, Oils, and Fats: Whether it’s bacon grease, olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter, these substances solidify as they cool, forming blockages in your pipes. Instead, collect these in a container and dispose of them in the trash.
- Food Waste: Larger food scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells don’t break down easily and can clog your drains. Even garbage disposals can struggle with these items.
- Harsh Chemicals: Products like bleach, alcohol, and paint should never go down your drain. They can corrode pipes, harm septic systems, and contaminate water supplies.
In the Bathroom
Bathroom drains are often clogged by items that don’t dissolve easily. Here’s what to avoid:
- Hair: One of the leading causes of shower [1] clogs, hair binds with soap residue to create stubborn blockages.
- Personal Hygiene Products: Items like cotton balls, wet wipes (even those labeled as “flushable”), and feminine hygiene products should be thrown in the trash.
- Excess Toothpaste: Large amounts of toothpaste can harden in pipes and contribute to build up over time.
Note: Avoid pouring hazardous chemicals down any drain as they can seep into local waterways and harm ecosystems.
How to Clear a Drain
Even with proper care, clogs can occasionally occur. Here are some safe and effective ways to clear your drains:
- Baking Soda and Vinegar
- Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to bubble for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Use a Plunger
- A plunger can help dislodge clogs in sinks, tubs, and toilets. Be sure to use the appropriate type of plunger for the job.
- Drain Snake
- A drain snake or auger is an effective tool for removing hair and debris from bathroom drains.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: These products may offer a quick fix, but they can damage your pipes over time and are harmful to the environment.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Sometimes, a clog is too stubborn for DIY solutions. Knowing when to call a professional can save you time, money, and frustration.
Signs You Need a Plumber:
- Recurring Clogs: If you’ve cleared a drain multiple times, but it continues to clog, the problem may be deeper in the system.
- Slow Drains: Persistent slow draining water often indicates a larger blockage.
- Foul Odors: Unpleasant smells coming from your drains can signal a buildup of waste or bacteria.
Anderson specializes in resolving complex drain issues in San Diego and the surrounding areas. Schedule your service today with our experienced plumbing team.
Need More Help?
Check out these helpful resources:
- Drain Services [2]
- Kitchen Plumbing [3]
- How to Avoid Sink & Shower Drain Clogs [1]
- Schedule Online [4]
By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your drains clog-free and your plumbing system running smoothly. For professional plumbing assistance, contact Anderson today.