Top 3 Causes of Drain Clogs & How To Prevent Them

A clogged drain is one of the most common and frustrating problems homeowners face. Slow-draining sinks, standing water in the shower, or gurgling sounds from the pipes are more than just annoyances. They can signal buildup that, if ignored, may lead to costly plumbing repairs. Fortunately, most clogs are preventable with the right habits. By understanding the top culprits behind blockages, you can take steps to keep your drains clear and your plumbing system in top shape.

Grease, Oil & Food Waste

Kitchen sinks are notorious for clogs, and grease is the number one offender. When you pour cooking oil, fats, or greasy food scraps down the drain, they don’t just wash away. Instead, they cool, harden, and cling to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this sticky buildup traps other debris, creating a stubborn blockage.

How To Prevent Grease, Oil & Food Waste From Clogging Your Drains

Never pour grease directly into the sink. Instead, collect it in a heat-safe container and throw it in the trash once it solidifies. Scrape food scraps into the garbage or compost bin before rinsing dishes. Installing a sink strainer can also help catch bits of food that would otherwise end up in your drain.

Hair & Soap Scum

In bathrooms, hair and soap scum team up to form another common clog. Hair wraps around itself and other debris, while soap residue hardens into a sticky film that narrows the drain. Together, they create the perfect recipe for standing water in your sink, tub, or shower.

How To Prevent Standing Water in Your Sink, Tub, or Shower

Use a drain cover or mesh screen to trap hair before it enters the pipes. Clean it out regularly to keep water flowing freely. For added protection, flush drains with hot water once a week to help break down small accumulations.

Foreign Objects & “Flushable” Products

It may be tempting to treat your toilet like a trash can, but even so-called “flushable” wipes, hygiene products, and paper towels are major clog culprits. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to dissolve quickly, these items can get stuck in bends of the pipe and cause blockages deep in the system. Small objects dropped down sinks or tubs, like toys or cotton swabs, are equally problematic.

How To Keep Your Toilets & Drains Clog-Free

Only flush waste and toilet paper — nothing else. Keep trash bins in every bathroom so items like wipes and tissues end up where they belong. In kitchens and laundry rooms, remind family members to avoid letting foreign objects slip into drains.

When To Call a Plumber

Even with the best habits, clogs can still happen. If you notice multiple drains slowing down at the same time, frequent recurring clogs, or sewage backing up into your sinks or tubs, it’s time to call a professional. These are signs of a deeper problem in your plumbing system that home remedies won’t fix. A licensed plumber has the tools and expertise to clear stubborn blockages safely and prevent further damage.

Clear Your Drains With Black-Haak

Since 1956, Black-Haak has been helping homeowners keep their plumbing systems flowing smoothly. We’ve built a reputation rooted in honesty, integrity, family values, comfort, service, reliability, and trust. With technicians on call 24/7, same-day service availability, and an A+ BBB rating, we deliver solutions you can count on. Backed by more than 60 years of experience, we’re committed to ensuring your drains are cleared quickly and effectively.

Clogs don’t have to disrupt your home or your schedule. Reach out to us to schedule service, and let our expert team restore your drains while giving you lasting confidence in your plumbing system.