The kitchen sink is one of the most used areas in your home. It handles everything from washing dishes to preparing food, so it’s important to keep it in good working order. While it’s built to handle a lot of daily use, certain habits can cause long-term issues. In this blog, we’ll go over two things you should NOT do to your kitchen sink and drain, and two things you should do to maintain a well-functioning sink and drain system.
2 Things You Should NOT Do to Your Kitchen Sink/Drain
- Don’t Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
One of the most common kitchen mistakes is pouring grease, oil, or fat down the drain. While it may seem like a quick and easy way to get rid of leftover cooking grease, it can cause serious plumbing issues. As grease cools, it solidifies and can create blockages in your pipes. Over time, this buildup can lead to slow drainage and, eventually, clogged pipes that are costly to fix.
Why this is a problem:
Clogs and backups: The grease solidifies and sticks to the sides of pipes, causing a narrowing of the drain and potential blockages.
Unpleasant odors: As the grease collects in your pipes, it can start to smell and attract bacteria.
What you should do instead:
Dispose of grease properly: Allow the grease to cool and solidify, then scrape it into the trash. You can also pour it into a container (like a milk carton) for disposal.
- Don’t Use Your Sink for Non-Food Items
While your kitchen sink may seem like a convenient place to rinse off a variety of items, it’s important not to use it for things that aren’t food-related. Things like paint, cleaning chemicals, or large food scraps can damage your pipes or clog your drain. Even certain fibrous foods like corn husks or potato peels can create issues as they don’t break down easily in the drain.
Why this is a problem:
Clogs and blockages: Items like paper towels, cooking oils, or even large chunks of food can build up in the drain, creating stubborn clogs that are difficult to clear.
Chemical damage: Pouring harsh chemicals or cleaners down the drain can damage the pipes and harm the environment.
What you should do instead:
Throw non-food items in the trash: Keep the sink clear of anything other than food scraps, and dispose of non-food items properly in a trash bin.
2 Things You Should Do to Your Kitchen Sink/Drain
- Do Regularly Clean and Disinfect the Sink
Cleaning your kitchen sink is an essential part of maintaining a healthy kitchen environment. Over time, food particles, soap scum, and even bacteria can accumulate in the sink and drain. Regular cleaning not only keeps your sink looking fresh but also helps prevent unpleasant smells and buildup.
How to clean your sink effectively:
Use a gentle cleaner: Avoid abrasive chemicals that can damage the surface of your sink. Instead, use a mild dish soap or a baking soda paste to scrub the sink.
Disinfect regularly: Wipe down the sink with an all-purpose disinfectant or a vinegar-water mixture to kill germs and bacteria.
Clean the drain: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain once a month to help break up any gunk that’s building up and prevent odors.
Why this is important:
Prevents odors and buildup: Regular cleaning helps remove food particles, grime, and bacteria, keeping your sink smelling fresh.
Keeps your kitchen healthy: A clean sink promotes good hygiene and reduces the risk of cross-contamination in food preparation.
- Do Use a Drain Strainer
To keep your drain clear and free of debris, consider using a drain strainer. A small, inexpensive strainer placed over your drain can catch food scraps, hair, and other debris before they go down the drain. This simple step can save you from clogged pipes and the need for frequent drain cleaning.
Why this is important:
Prevents clogs: A drain strainer acts as a barrier, stopping large particles and debris from entering the pipes.
Reduces the need for harsh chemicals: By catching debris before it gets into the drain, you can avoid relying on drain-cleaning chemicals, which can be harmful to both your plumbing and the environment.
What you should do instead:
Empty the strainer regularly: Dispose of any food scraps or debris that accumulate in the strainer, ensuring it stays clean and effective.
Conclusion
By avoiding some common mistakes like pouring grease down the drain and using your sink for non-food items, you can protect your kitchen plumbing from unnecessary damage. At the same time, regular cleaning and using a drain strainer will help keep your sink in top condition. With just a little care and attention, you can ensure your kitchen sink and drain remain functional and free of clogs for years to come.
