Cleaning drains is far from the most glamorous household maintenance job. And because it’s out of sight, the temptation always is to put it out of mind.
But not paying attention to the condition of your household drains can have serious long-term consequences.
In the kitchen alone, food particles and other gunge can get flushed into the pipes, while in bathrooms, your daily teeth-brushing, showering, and hand-washing also results in soap, hair and other residue running into the drains.
Over time, this run-off can accumulate, meaning that the water will no longer be able to run through the drain pipes as freely as it should.
It’s a good idea to undertake some basic maintenance cleaning on a regular basis, perhaps two or three times per month. Use hot or boiling water to flush the drains. Another method is to use a solution of baking soda and vinegar, pouring it into the drain, covering it with a towel, and then flushing it.
Hair build-up and soap clogs in shower drains can be another difficulty that prevents the free flow of water through the pipe, leading to unpleasant odours. A drain strainer is a great little investment.
At all times, avoid quick fixes, such as liquid chemical drain cleaners. These products, if they fail to remove a blockage, can remain and corrode the pipes from within, leading to significant long-term problems.
If problems persist, such as odours and blockages, it’s best to contact a plumber who will be able to deliver a fully rounded professional solution to the problem.