The Most Common Reasons Home Drains Get Clogged (And How to Prevent Them)

A backed-up drain can throw off your whole day, but it doesn’t have to be a recurring problem. If you stay ahead of buildup with routine drain cleaning in Beltsville, MD, you can stop most clogs in their tracks. Here are some of the most common causes of drain trouble and how to prevent them.
Hair Buildup
Hair might seem harmless, but over time, it tangles and combines with soap scum to create tough clogs—especially in showers and bathroom sinks. To avoid having to deal with a pesky clogged drain, install simple drain strainers and clean them regularly to keep hair from sneaking into your pipes.
Grease and Cooking Oils
Pouring grease down the kitchen sink is a recipe for disaster. As grease cools, it hardens and sticks to pipe walls, eventually causing major backups. Hydro jetting professionals recommend pouring grease into a container, letting it solidify, and tossing it in the trash instead of the sink.
Food Scraps and Coffee Grounds
Even with a garbage disposal, food particles can build up in your kitchen drain. Coffee grounds, in particular, clump and clog easily. Be sure to scrape plates thoroughly and use sink screens to trap debris before it enters your plumbing.
Soap Scum and Mineral Buildup
Over time, soap residue and hard water minerals can narrow your pipes and trap other materials, forming stubborn blockages. Use water softeners if you have hard water and switch to liquid soap to reduce scum buildup.
Flushing the Wrong Items
Keeping your plumbing in top shape starts with smart flushing habits. Avoid sending wipes or hygiene products down the toilet, and stick to just toilet paper. Combined with regular drain cleaning services, this simple practice helps ensure long-term flow and function.
Don’t Wait for a Major Backup
If your drains are slowing down or gurgling, it’s time to act. Preventative maintenance is key, and when clogs go beyond a plunger’s power, professional help from a reputable drain cleaning company is your best bet. Contact us today at Advantage Trenchless Solutions for expert drain cleaning and clog removal!