Infographic From: Tunnel Vision Pipeline Services
You might think dumping household items down the drain puts them out of sight and out of mind. However, those chemicals and substances can build up, ultimately landing you on a hefty plumbing bill. The sink, toilet, or tub drain can be cleansed through methods that could prevent corrosion from harsh chemicals. A plunger and a bit of draining solution can work wonders. Still, it’s best to be vigilant about the household items that make their way into the drain and be aware of what can and can’t be dumped or flushed.
Go The Natural Route
Perhaps the least problematic way to keep your drains clear is to switch chemical-heavy household items with eco-friendly alternatives. Using ingredients such as white vinegar, natural salt, and baking soda in cleaners, toiletries, and health products is better for the environment. Those ingredients can also prevent having to call the plumber for a clogged drain.
The Effect Of Your Household Items
Health and beauty products often contain chemicals that might be detrimental to ecosystems when they seep into the water. Your nightly skin regimen might get rid of acne and blackheads but cause mutations in wildlife. An unnatural shift in the water ecosystems can occur when your moisturizers, makeup, toiletries, and soaps are rinsed into the pipes.
While unused flushing medications are different than naturally passing medicines through your body, the Food and Drug Administration encourages the use of drug take-back programs. Some pharmacies also have mail-back programs and disposal kiosks for unused medication.
Do not put coffee grounds and eggshells down the kitchen sink. Unfortunately, these products stay stuck in your plumbing system long after discarding them. A compost pile for coffee grounds and eggshells, two major contributors to drain blockage, can naturally decompose them, along with other chunks of food. If you have any grease, fat, or oil remnants after cooking, store the drippings in a container and bring them to a disposal station.
Safely disposing of household items can keep your pipes clear and maintenance costs low. Please take a look at our guide for what not to put down the drain, as well as recommended disposal methods.
