5 Tips To Prevent Clogged Drains

5 Expert Tips to Prevent Clogs and Costly Repairs

Cleaning a clogged drain can be frustrating, time-consuming, and sometimes expensive. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a full-blown sewer backup, clogs can quickly disrupt your home or business. That’s why the best solution is prevention. Keeping your drains clean with a few simple habits can save you from major plumbing issues down the line.

At EVERYDAYPLUMBER.com, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid the mess. With decades of experience serving homeowners and businesses across the Tampa Bay Area, our team has put together five tried-and-true tips to help you keep your drains flowing smoothly all year round.

1. Use Drain Strainers in Your Sinks and Showers
Strainers are your first line of defense. These inexpensive tools trap hair, food particles, and other debris before they go down the drain and cause a blockage. Place them in your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, and tub drains—and clean them out every few days. It’s a simple step that can significantly reduce the risk of a clog.

2. Keep Soap Chunks Out of Your Drains
While you might think a small piece of soap will just dissolve and disappear, soap can actually build up over time—especially in bathroom drains. Combine that with hair and other residue, and you’ve got a recipe for a stubborn clog. Use a soap saver or mesh bag to catch the last bits, and always toss soap scraps in the trash.

3. Flush Only Toilet Paper—Nothing Else
Many people assume that items like cotton balls, sanitary wipes, dental floss, and paper towels are “safe to flush”—especially if the label says “flushable.” Unfortunately, that’s not true. These items don’t break down properly and can clog your sewer line. Stick to flushing only toilet paper to avoid toilet backups and major plumbing repairs.

4. Watch What You Put in the Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are great for food scraps—but only certain kinds. Avoid putting the following down your disposal:

• Grease or cooking oil
• Eggshells
• Meat scraps or bones
• Fibrous vegetables like celery or corn husks
  These items can jam the disposal or build up in your pipes, leading to a nasty kitchen sink clog. When in doubt, throw it out!

5. Try a Natural Drain Cleaning Solution Every 3 Months
A little routine maintenance goes a long way. Every few months, try this natural solution to break down buildup and keep your drains smelling fresh:

• Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
• Slowly add ½ cup of vinegar and let the mixture fizz for 5–10 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with hot water.

This eco-friendly method can help keep your drains clear and prevent odors without the use of harsh chemicals.