We seem to think our drains are indestructible. We pour and throw food down the sink or toilet and completely forget about it, until that day comes when we get drain clogs and we realize there are some things that we actually shouldn’t put down there. So, to help prevent any drain issues and costly repair bills, here are 7 things you should never put down the drain.

Coffee Grounds

When it comes to kitchen drain clogs, coffee grounds are one of the biggest culprits. They easily clog drains but oddly are one of the things that people most commonly put down the drain. Reuse, recycle, or compost coffee grounds instead of putting them down the sink.

Oil

Whether it’s cooking oil, melted fat from meat, or any other type of grease, they should not go down the drain. Oil when liquid can flow down the drain very easily, but as soon as it cools, it solidifies, which can cause huge drain clogs and problems.

Wipes, Kleenex and Paper Towels

Flushable wipes, Kleenex and Paper Towels are not the same as toilet paper as they don’t disintegrate in the same way. Most of the time, wipes are created with other ingredients and chemicals, which means they don’t break up and can build up in the waterways.

Eggshells

Even though it’s tempting to throw your eggshells down the drain or garburator, they actually contribute to forming huge drain clogs which can cause drain blockages. Instead of throwing your eggshells down the drain, throw them into the compost instead.

Medication

Did you know that medication can actually pollute the waterways? Rather than flushing it down the toilet, take it to a medication drop-off centre or seal it in a bag and throw it in the trash.

Stickers and Paper

Produce stickers and bits of paper can easily get stuck in the drain and cause problems. Even though they’re small, these build up over time and can even cause problems at wastewater treatment plants, especially as they’re usually not biodegradable.

Starchy Foods

Foods like rice, potatoes, pasta, and other starchy foods that retain water are also bad culprits for causing drain clogs. Instead, compost unwanted foods or put them in the normal trash.

If you’re looking for more tips or a plumber in Vancouver to fix your drain clogs, get in touch with Mr. Plumber Vancouver today!