The Most Common Causes of a Clogged Drain

Few things are as frustrating as turning on the sink or shower and realizing the water isn’t draining. Clogged drains can slow down your daily routine, cause unpleasant odors, and even lead to costly plumbing repairs if ignored. The good news? Most drain blockages are preventable once you know the common culprits.

1. Hair Buildup

Bathroom sinks and shower drains are notorious for collecting hair. Over time, hair tangles together, catching soap scum and other debris, creating a stubborn clog that water can’t push through.

2. Soap Scum and Residue

Many soaps contain fats that combine with minerals in water, forming a hard residue known as soap scum. This sticky substance can line your pipes, narrowing the space for water to flow.

3. Food Waste

Kitchen sinks are particularly vulnerable to clogs from food scraps, grease, and oils. Even if you have a garbage disposal, items like coffee grounds, eggshells, and starchy foods can accumulate and create blockages.

4. Grease and Oil

Pouring grease or cooking oil down the drain is one of the fastest ways to cause a clog. As the grease cools, it hardens and sticks to the inside of pipes, trapping other debris along the way.

5. Foreign Objects

From kids’ toys to jewelry and hygiene products, foreign objects can easily find their way into drains and cause immediate blockages. Even items labeled “flushable” often don’t break down fast enough to avoid clogs.

6. Mineral Buildup

If you have hard water, mineral deposits can slowly accumulate inside your pipes. Over time, these deposits reduce water flow and contribute to frequent clogging issues.

7. Paper Products

Toilets and bathroom sinks can become clogged when paper towels, wipes, or other thick paper products are flushed. These don’t dissolve like toilet paper and can create stubborn backups.

Preventing Drain Clogs

The best way to avoid clogs is by practicing good habits, like using drain covers, never pouring grease down the sink, and scheduling regular professional cleanings. Having the right tools on hand can also make a big difference. For a helpful guide on what to keep at home, check out these drain cleaning tools everyone should know about.