10 Things You Should Never Put Down Your Drain
As professional plumbers in Markham, Toronto, and Brampton, we’ve seen the costly results of improper drain use. Many homeowners unintentionally damage their plumbing systems by disposing of the wrong items down the drain. To help you avoid clogged pipes and expensive repairs, here are 10 things you should never put down your drains.
1. Cooking Grease or Oil
When grease or oil cools, it solidifies and sticks to your pipes, eventually leading to stubborn clogs. Instead, pour cooled grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds don’t break down easily. They act like sand and can accumulate over time, creating serious blockages. Toss them in your compost or garbage bin instead.
3. Eggshells
Eggshells may seem harmless, but their tiny shell fragments can bind with other debris in your pipes, forming clogs. Compost them for a better use.
4. Feminine Hygiene Products
These products are not biodegradable and can quickly block your plumbing system. Always wrap and dispose of them in the trash.
5. Baby Wipes
Even “flushable” wipes don’t disintegrate like toilet paper. They can get stuck in your pipes or cause issues in your septic system. Always throw wipes in the bin.
6. Paper Towels
Paper towels are thicker than toilet paper and don’t dissolve in water. Flushing them can lead to severe plumbing blockages.
7. Fruit Peels
Fruit and vegetable peels can stick together and clog your pipes. Use them for composting instead of flushing or rinsing down the drain.
8. Medications
Flushing medications can contaminate water systems and harm wildlife. Always dispose of unused or expired medicines at a local pharmacy or designated collection point.
9. Hair
Hair strands easily clump together, especially when mixed with soap residue. Use a drain catcher to trap hair and dispose of it properly.
10. Paints and Chemicals
Never pour paint, cleaners, or harsh chemicals down your drain. They can corrode pipes and are hazardous to the environment. Dispose of them through your local hazardous waste program.
Keep Your Drains Healthy with Professional Help
Your drain is designed for water and human waste — not as a garbage bin. Following these simple steps can save you from costly plumbing repairs and messy backups.
If you ever face a stubborn blockage, trust Drain Experts Plumbing, your local plumbers in Brampton, Toronto, and Markham, for quick and reliable service.
We’re just a call away to help keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly.


