Avoid Clogs Before They Start: Drain Cleaning Tips from the Pros

Watch What You Put Down the Drain

Let’s start in the kitchen. Grease might seem like a liquid when it’s hot, but it cools and hardens inside your pipes. That sticky mess can grab onto other food bits, building up until nothing gets through.

To avoid this, pour the cooled grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash. Use a drain strainer to catch food pieces. Wipe plates and pans before washing them in the sink.

Over in the bathroom, hair, soap, and even toothpaste can cause buildup. Use drain covers to catch hair and clean them out often. A little extra care now can stop you from needing an urgent plumbing service later.

Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Can

Flushable wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, and other hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. Even if the label says “flushable,” many items don’t break down as easily as toilet paper does. These products can get stuck in the pipes or bunch together with other debris. Toilets are made to handle only human waste and toilet paper—nothing more.

Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air often sees this mistake. To avoid paying a professional plumber to remove a clog, use a small trash bin in your bathroom for everything except toilet paper.

Run Hot Water After Use

A quick rinse with hot water after using your sinks can help dislodge any small debris that may have accumulated in the pipes. Simply turn on the hot water for 15 to 30 seconds to flush out any debris that may be starting to clog.

It’s a simple habit that costs almost nothing but can make a big difference over time. Professionals at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air say that even small actions like this can reduce the frequency of professional drain cleaning.

Clean Drains Regularly With Safe Methods

You don’t need harsh chemicals to clean your drains. Many store-bought products can damage your pipes when used repeatedly. Instead, try a safe mix of baking soda and vinegar once a month.

Here’s how:

• Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
• Follow with half a cup of vinegar.
• Let it fizz for about 15 minutes.
• Rinse with hot water.

It’s a gentle way to stay on top of clogs before they form. If things still move slowly, it may be time to call a plumbing service for a more thorough inspection.

Keep Trees and Roots in Check

Tree roots may seem harmless, but they’re one of the top reasons for outdoor pipe clogs. Roots grow toward moisture and can sneak into small cracks in underground pipes. Once they’re in, they grow fast and block the flow.

If you have trees near your sewer lines, watch for signs like slow drains, gurgling sounds, or backed-up toilets. You may not be able to see the roots, but a trained plumber can use a camera to identify the problem.

Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air recommends regular inspections for homeowners living in older homes or those with large trees nearby. Catching root problems early can save you from major repairs.

Be Careful With Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals are helpful, but they’re not a magic solution. Avoid putting stringy foods, such as celery, onion peels, or potato skins, into the disposal. These items can wrap around the blades and block the drain. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and pasta can also cause issues.

Use cold water when running the disposal and keep it running for a few seconds after the food has been cleared. This helps wash everything through. If the disposal starts to smell, toss in a few ice cubes and a lemon slice to freshen things up.

Know When to Call for Help

Sometimes, even the best care can’t stop every clog. If your drains smell bad, move slowly, or back up often, it’s time to call a professional. Trained techs can use tools like drain snakes or hydro-jetting to clear the pipes safely. Getting help early can prevent water damage and even mold growth inside your home.

Ready for Clear Drains? Take the Next Step

Keeping your pipes clean doesn’t have to be hard. When you need backup, trust the team at Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air to handle it with care.

If you’re dealing with stubborn clogs or just want peace of mind, don’t wait. Schedule a plumbing service with professionals who know how to get the job done right. A little effort now can help you avoid big problems later. Call today to keep things flowing smoothly!