How to Prevent Costly Drain Clogs

Clogged drains are one of the most common—and frustrating—plumbing issues homeowners face. Left untreated, a small clog can turn into a costly and inconvenient problem, potentially leading to pipe damage or even water backups. Fortunately, with a few preventative measures, you can keep your drains clear and your plumbing in top shape. Here are some expert tips from Cole’s Plumbing on how to prevent costly drain clogs.

1. Use Drain Strainers

One of the simplest ways to keep your drains free from blockages is by using drain strainers. These small, inexpensive mesh or metal screens can catch food scraps, hair, soap scum, and other debris before they enter your pipes. Make sure to clean them out regularly to maintain optimal drainage.

**Kitchen Sink:** A strainer can prevent food particles, grease, and other waste from getting into the pipes, especially if you don’t have a garbage disposal.

**Bathroom Sinks and Showers:** Hair is the leading cause of bathroom drain clogs, so using a strainer will help prevent this buildup.

2. Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain

Grease, oils, and fats are the enemies of your kitchen drain. While they may go down the drain as a liquid, they quickly solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes, causing stubborn clogs over time.

**Tip:** After cooking, pour grease into a disposable container (like a can or jar) and let it solidify. Once it hardens, toss it in the trash.

3. Be Mindful of What You Flush

Your toilet is not a trash can, and flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste can lead to major plumbing issues. Items like wipes (even those labeled "flushable"), feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and paper towels can cause blockages that are expensive to clear.

**Tip:** Keep a small trash bin near the toilet for non-flushable items.

4. Regularly Clean Your Drains

Preventing clogs can be as simple as cleaning your drains regularly to clear away debris before it becomes a problem.

**Natural Drain Cleaners:** Every month, pour a mixture of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda down your drains. This natural solution helps break down grease and soap buildup.

**Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners:** While it may be tempting to use commercial chemical drain cleaners, these can corrode pipes over time and are harmful to the environment.

5. Run Hot Water After Each Use

Running hot water down the drain after each use helps flush away oils and grease before they harden. This simple step, especially after washing dishes, can help prevent clogs from forming.

6. Dispose of Food Waste Properly

Even if you have a garbage disposal, it’s important to be cautious about what goes down the drain. Certain foods can cause clogs or damage your disposal.

**Foods to Avoid:** Eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, fibrous vegetables (like celery), and potato peels can all cause drain clogs.

**Tip:** Scrape plates into the trash or compost bin before rinsing dishes in the sink.

7. Clear Hair from Shower Drains Regularly

Hair is the leading cause of clogged shower drains, so preventing clogs starts with removing hair from the drain regularly. After each shower, take a few seconds to clear any visible hair from the drain cover to prevent buildup.

**Tip:** You can also install a hair catcher in your shower drain for added protection.

8. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

One of the best ways to avoid costly clogs is to have your plumbing system inspected by professionals. Routine inspections can catch small issues before they become major problems. At Cole's Plumbing, we offer drain cleaning and pipe inspections to ensure your plumbing stays in peak condition.

9. Be Cautious with DIY Remedies

While it’s tempting to try DIY solutions for clogged drains, not all home remedies are effective. Using tools like drain snakes or plungers incorrectly can damage your pipes. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, it’s best to call in the professionals.

10. Watch for Early Signs of a Clog

Early detection is key to preventing more serious problems. Pay attention to signs of slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or foul odors coming from your drains. These could indicate a blockage forming deeper in your pipes.

When to Call Cole’s Plumbing

If you notice persistent slow drainage or experience frequent clogs, it’s time to call in the experts. At Cole’s Plumbing, we specialize in drain cleaning, pipe inspections, and sewer line repairs to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly. We serve Hancock County, MS, St. Tammany Parish, LA, Metairie, LA, Kenner, LA, and the surrounding areas.

With our professional services and 24/7 emergency response, we can handle even the toughest clogs—before they turn into expensive problems. Contact us today to schedule a drain cleaning or inspection and keep your home clog-free!