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If you’ve ever encountered black sludge in your bathroom drain, you know how disgusting it can be — yet, unfortunately, drain buildup is a common concern. That’s because even normal, everyday grooming bathroom activities can fuel the slime that forms in your bathroom drain. As skin cells, hair, soap, shaving cream, toothpaste, lotion and other substances collect in the pipes, they create an environment in which bacteria can thrive. How can you prevent drain buildup while still using your sink and shower each day? To help answer this question, here’s a look at some top tips for how to prevent drain buildup at home:
Start with the right drain.
The better and more efficient your drain, the less chance you have of drain buildup. Shop the selection of bathroom and bathtub faucets and bathtubs and shower fixtures at Modern Bathroom, and find options that make it harder for clogs to occur.
Screen your drain.
Stop large clumps of hair or soap from falling down the drain by setting a screen or grate over the opening. Today’s market has options for every fixture — including drains for bathtubs or vanity sinks. Set it in place and pull out the items that get caught regularly.
Heat things up.
If you can get into the habit, run hot water through your sink after each use. Hot water can help any oils caught in your drain move rather than build up and cause clogs.
Shake in some baking soda.
Once a month or so, throw a handful of baking soda in your sink drain and chase it with a kettle full of hot water. Baking soda is a powerful odor absorber and cleaning agent, which may help prevent drain buildup.
Try vinegar.
The acidic nature of vinegar makes it a great tool for removing the crud that builds up in your pipes. Pour a cup of it down the drain, wait a half-hour, and pour in some extremely hot water.
Pull out the big guns for clogs.
If you notice a clog in your drain, act quickly. Pour a 1/2 cup each of salt and baking soda down the drain, and follow it with a 1/2 cup of vinegar. This combination will foam a little. Wait a minute and pour in 2 quarts of boiling water. Nobody likes clogged bathroom drains — but the good news is, they can be prevented with a few basic habits. Implement the six suggestions above to protect your pipes and keep water freely flowing at home!