When we clean dishes and pans, it is very difficult to avoid small bits of food ending up going down the drain. However, with some proper care, we can reduce the risks to a minimum. In this article we detail the best tips to protect your pipelines, how to clean them effectively at home and what are the foods that you should never pour down the drain.
Why protect sink pipes?
A clogged pipe can cause multiple inconveniences, from bad smells to costly repairs. Many of these problems are caused by improper disposal of certain foods and domestic wasteFurthermore, disposing of inappropriate products can negatively affect the environment, contaminating water and soil.
It is important that we understand that pipes are designed to transport only liquids. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures and use strainers or grids that prevent the passage of Solid waste inside the pipes.
Things you shouldn't flush down the drain
Here is a list of the most problematic elements that should never be thrown down the drain. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, money and headaches.
1. Rice
El rice It seems harmless due to its size, but once it absorbs water, it swells and can block pipes. Rice residues that get stuck on plates and pots represent one of the most common problems. main risks to cause major traffic jams.
2. Coffee grounds
It has been mistakenly believed that the coffee grounds They help clean pipes, however, they are fibrous and do not break down easily. Instead of cleaning, they accumulate with other waste, hindering the flow of water.
3 Pasta
La pasta It acts in a similar way to rice. Being rich in starch, it expands inside the pipes when it comes into contact with water, blocking the passage of the liquid and creating difficult to remove blockages.
4. Egg shells
The eggshells, although small, are sticky and tend to adhere to the walls of the pipes. Over time, this can form a solid plug that is difficult to remove.
5. Oil and fats
El oil and fat They are especially dangerous because, although they are liquid when hot, they tend to solidify when they cool. This creates a sticky layer in the pipes that traps other debris and causes severe blockages.
Check out more tips on how to avoid traffic jams in our guide on how to unclog a sink at home.
6. Medications
Discard drugs through the drain can release harmful chemical compounds into the water and soil. Ideally, they should be taken to a recycling point in pharmacies.
7. Flour
When mixed with water, the flour forms a mass that adheres to the walls of the pipes. This material is very difficult to remove once it dries, causing severe jams.
8. Painting
The remains of painting contain chemicals that can solidify inside pipes. Also, throwing paint down the drain contributes to the water contamination.
9. Adhesives and stickers
The adhesives Fruit and other similar materials do not decompose in water and can stick to the walls of pipes, making it difficult for water to pass through.
To learn more about home care, you can visit our special section on Home maintenance tips.
Tips to keep your pipes clean
While the prevention It is key to maintain a routine for cleaning pipes and it can help you avoid long-term problems. Below we offer you a natural remedy and effective:
Home remedy to unclog pipes
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and pour it down the drain.
- Add half a cup of baking soda and let it act for 10 minutes.
- Mix hot water with vinegar (in equal parts) and pour it over the baking soda. Let it sit for another 10-15 minutes.
- Finally, Pour more hot water to clean up debris.
In addition, we recommend that you install protective grids down the drains and avoid throwing away any solid waste, no matter how small it may seem.
Discover other effective methods for unclog the shower if you need more ideas.
Pipe care is not only crucial to prevent domestic problems, but also contributes to caring for the environment. Adopting good use and maintenance practices will avoid long-term problems and keep your home in perfect condition.