6 Things Nobody Told You Will Damage Your Pipes

There are so many potential dangers when it comes to plumbing, but damage to the pipes can be serious. Not only can it create the need for otherwise unnecessary repairs, but it can cause clogs and blockages that back up your entire system. Everyone knows that there are certain things you shouldn’t put down the drain, like hair or cooking oil, but here are six things you might not have known to avoid.

1. Fruit Rinds and Peels 

Even if you have a garbage disposal, these food items are not a good idea to put in the drains. They’re best for the garbage bin, or a compost pile if you have one. Rinds and peels can clog up a garbage disposal and they don’t break down easily, so they can lead to further clogs and issues. 

2. Feminine Hygiene Products 

This is one no one wants to talk about, but it’s a serious leading cause of major plumbing issues. Plumbers don’t like to discuss the details, but they answer more calls for clogs related to this than most others. It’s best to just throw all this stuff in the garbage. 

3. Coffee Grounds

It’s easy to think that coffee grounds are small enough that they should be able to go down the drain without issue, but they can become sticky and clumped, creating clogs and attracting other food items and things that come down the drain. Usually, this ends up requiring a plumber with a snake to fix it, so just don’t do it. 

4. Flushable Wipes

Yes, they say they’re “flushable,” but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good idea. These wipes take longer to break down and in the meantime, they can cause clogs by creating barriers in pipes and collecting other debris. 

5. Flushable Cat Litter

Again, we know it says it can be flushed. However, like coffee grounds, cat litter can clump and collect, attracting other items and creating serious issues in your pipes. It’s best to just throw it out. 

6. Paint 

Paint is known for needing proper disposal, but few people talk about rinsing brushes and rollers down a sink drain. This can cause a lot of potential issues. Namely, the paint can dry and become sticky, collecting items and causing clogs. It can also flake and create blockages in drains, and it leaves harmful toxins and chemicals in the water that could end up in the main supply. 

Ultimately, if you’re not sure whether it’s safe to put something down the drain, ask Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing, or just don’t do it. The cost of repairs probably won’t be worth it.