When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, your drains are the silent workhorses. They handle everything from washing dishes to draining your bathtub—but over time, neglect can lead to clogs, odors, backups, and even costly repairs. The good news? Most of these issues are entirely preventable with proper long-term drain care.
At Thornton Drain Service, we’ve seen it all—from kitchen grease disasters to hidden pipe blockages—and we’re here to help homeowners like you keep things flowing smoothly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential do’s and don’ts of long-term drain care, so you can avoid headaches and keep your plumbing in top shape.
✅ DO: Use Drain Screens or Strainers
One of the simplest ways to prevent drain problems is to install screens or strainers in your sinks, showers, and tubs. These inexpensive tools catch hair, food particles, soap scum, and other debris before they go down the drain and create clogs.
- In the kitchen, strainers help catch food scraps.
- In the bathroom, they trap hair and soap buildup.
- For laundry drains, mesh filters can catch lint from your washer.
Regularly clean your strainers to keep water flowing freely.
❌ DON’T: Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
One of the most common causes of clogged kitchen drains is pouring grease or oil down the sink. Even if it’s hot and seems like it’s flowing smoothly, grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to the inside of your pipes and creating a sticky mess that traps food and debris.
Instead:
- Let grease cool and dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash.
- Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them.
✅ DO: Run Hot Water After Each Use
Flushing your drains with hot water for about 30 seconds after each use can help clear out any lingering residue. This is especially important in kitchen sinks where small amounts of grease or soap can build up over time.
Bonus tip: Add a splash of dish soap while the water is running to help break down grease.
❌ DON’T: Use Chemical Drain Cleaners Regularly
Chemical drain cleaners may offer a quick fix, but they can be harsh on your pipes—especially if you have older or PVC plumbing. Over time, these chemicals can corrode pipes and cause bigger problems.
Use alternatives like:
- Baking soda and vinegar (natural and safe)
- A professional drain cleaning service for tough clogs
✅ DO: Clean Drains Monthly With Natural Solutions
You don’t need chemicals to keep your drains fresh and clear. A monthly cleaning with a baking soda and vinegar mixture can help break down buildup and neutralize odors.
Here’s how:
- Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow with 1 cup of vinegar.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse with hot water.
This simple habit can extend the life of your drains and keep them smelling fresh.
❌ DON’T: Flush “Flushable” Wipes or Hygiene Products
Despite what the label says, many so-called “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can create major blockages in your plumbing or the city sewer system. The same goes for cotton balls, paper towels, sanitary products, and dental floss.
Only flush:
- Human waste
- Toilet paper
Everything else should go in the trash.
✅ DO: Schedule Annual Professional Drain Inspections
Just like your car needs regular servicing, your plumbing system benefits from annual inspections by a licensed professional. A plumber can:
- Check for signs of buildup, leaks, or slow drains
- Clean problem areas before they cause backups
- Spot issues early and recommend preventive repairs
At Thornton Drain Service, we offer affordable annual inspections to help homeowners avoid surprises and extend the life of their plumbing.
❌ DON’T: Ignore Slow Drains
A slow drain isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a warning sign that something is clogging your pipes. The longer you wait, the worse the problem gets.
If you notice water draining slowly in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry area, it’s time to take action before a full blockage forms. You might be able to clear it yourself, but if not, call a local drain expert.
✅ DO: Watch What Goes Down the Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are convenient, but they’re not invincible. Certain items should never go down the disposal, including:
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Bones
- Pasta, rice, or starchy foods
- Fibrous veggies like celery and corn husks
Pro tip: Always run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal to help flush waste through the system.
❌ DON’T: Forget About Outdoor Drains
Outdoor and basement floor drains can easily become clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, especially during rainy seasons. Clogged exterior drains can lead to flooding or foundation damage.
Make it a habit to:
- Clear outdoor drains after storms
- Install grates or covers where needed
- Remove nearby weeds or roots that may creep into the pipes
✅ DO: Educate Your Household
Long-term drain care is a team effort! Make sure everyone in your household—kids included—knows the basics of what can and can’t go down each type of drain. A few simple changes in daily habits can go a long way in avoiding emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your drains doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple habits and regular check-ins, you can prevent clogs, odors, and costly plumbing disasters.
At Thornton Drain Service, we’re here to help you stay proactive with affordable maintenance plans, quick service, and expert advice. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or just want a yearly inspection, our team is ready to serve your home with honesty and care.
Need help with your drains?
Contact us today for a free estimate or to schedule a professional drain cleaning!
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