It’s easy to take drains for granted. They do the important job of carrying away our waste and cleaning up after us, but few of us ever think about what might be lurking in them. Unfortunately, it turns out that there are a number of shocking things lurking in drains that could pose a health risk if you’re not careful.
Here’s a look at 5 things that might be lurking in your drain.
Mold & Mildew
Mold and mildew love dark and damp environments, so it’s no surprise that they can often be found growing in kitchen and bathroom drains. Not only do these unsightly organisms look bad, but they can also cause unpleasant odors as well as health problems like allergies and asthma. The best way to prevent mold from building up in your drains is to make sure you use a drain cover or stopper when running water and to regularly clean out any buildup with baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water.
Hair & Skin Cells
When you shower or bathe, a lot of tiny particles get washed down the drain. This includes hair strands, skin cells, and other debris that are too small to see with the naked eye. Over time, these can build up within your pipes, creating blockages that can lead to serious plumbing problems. If you want to keep your drains clear, make sure you use a mesh strainer or stopper over the drain opening when you shower or bathe so that these particles don’t have a chance to get into your pipes.
Soap Scum
Soap scum is the slimy residue left behind after soap has been washed off of surfaces such as sinks, counters, showers, etc.. As soap scum accumulates over time it can create blockages in drains which can lead to slow-draining pipes or even complete clogs. To prevent this from happening, be sure to regularly scrub away any visible soap scum with a sponge or rag soaked in vinegar and baking soda solution. This will help break up any residue before it has a chance to build up and cause problems.
Grease & Oil
Grease and oil are two substances that should never be put down your drain as they can cause serious damage over time. As these substances cool down they harden inside pipes creating blockages that can lead to slow-draining sinks or complete clogs if not addressed quickly enough. The best way to prevent grease and oil from being put down the drain is by making sure all cooking oils are disposed of properly—either by pouring them into an empty container for later disposal, or simply wiping them off dishes before washing them in the sink.
Food Particles
Food particles such as bits of meat, vegetables, seasonings, etc., are notorious for accumulating inside pipes over time causing blockages that result in slow-draining sinks or complete clogs if not addressed quickly enough. To avoid this problem make sure to use a silicone or mesh drain protector before washing them in the sink to keep any unwanted food scraps from getting washed down the sink. Keep an eye out for any signs of buildup such as slow-draining water or bad odors coming from drains on a regular basis so you know when it’s time for some good old-fashioned cleaning!
Call Tap 2 Drain Plumbing
Taking care of your home’s plumbing system is essential for keeping your family healthy and safe from potential hazards lurking in your drains. It’s important to regularly clean your drains to prevent any build-up of any abhorrent matter. If a clogged, smelly, or slow drain is getting you down, reach out to our expert team at Tap 2 Drain to get your drain running smoothly again!