Most blocked drains are caused by what goes into them. A few simple habits make a big difference, and they cost nothing.
In the kitchen
- Never pour fat, oil or grease down the sink. Let it cool, then scrape it into the bin or collect it in a container.
- Wipe greasy pans and plates with kitchen roll before washing.
- Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps.
- Keep coffee grounds, rice, pasta and peelings out of the sink. They swell and stick to grease.
- Run hot tap water for a few seconds after washing up.
Kitchen sink blockages are the most common type we see. See why does my sink keep blocking? for more.
In the bathroom
- Only flush the three Ps: pee, poo and paper.
- Bin all wipes, including those labelled flushable, along with cotton buds, sanitary products, nappies and dental floss.
- Fit hair catchers in showers and baths.
- Clean plugholes and traps every few months.
- Do not use too much toilet paper in one flush, especially with low-flush toilets.
In the garden
- Keep gullies clear of leaves, particularly in autumn. A gully guard helps.
- Do not let soil, sand or cement wash into drains during gardening or building work.
- Think about trees. Avoid planting thirsty species close to drain runs.
- Keep inspection chamber covers accessible, so drains can be checked and cleared easily if needed.
For landlords
Shared houses and flats put more pressure on drains. It helps to:
- give tenants clear guidance on what not to flush or pour away;
- provide bins in bathrooms;
- consider a drain clean between tenancies (see drain cleaning).
For businesses
Commercial kitchens are especially vulnerable to grease build-up. Staff training, properly maintained grease management equipment, and planned jetting all reduce the risk of disruptive blockages. See commercial drainage and drain maintenance.
When prevention is not enough
If a drain keeps blocking even when used carefully, the cause is probably in the pipe itself: roots, a displaced joint or a sagging section. Prevention will not fix that. A CCTV drain survey can show what is going on.
Want your drains checked or cleaned? If you are in Southampton, see drain cleaning in Southampton or contact us.