DIY Tips for Keeping Your Drains Clear During Holiday Cooking
The holiday season means more cooking, baking, and entertaining. With all that activity, your kitchen drains work overtime. Grease, food scraps, and other debris can quickly cause clogs. A blocked drain during a holiday gathering is stressful and inconvenient. The good news is you can prevent most clogs with a few simple steps. Here are some DIY tips to keep your drains clear and flowing smoothly this holiday season.
Dispose of Grease Properly
Grease is one of the biggest culprits behind kitchen clogs. It might seem harmless to pour it down the drain, but as grease cools, it hardens, creating sticky blockages that trap other debris. Over time, this can lead to a serious clog.
Instead, let the grease cool after cooking. Pour it into a disposable container and throw it in the trash. If you’re frying a turkey or cooking something greasy, use an aluminum tray to catch the drippings. Proper grease disposal goes a long way in preventing holiday plumbing disasters.
Use Sink Strainers
Sink strainers are small tools with a big impact. These handy devices catch food scraps and debris before they go down the drain. Strainers are especially useful when preparing big meals, as tiny food particles can quickly build up in your pipes.
Choose one that fits snugly in your sink and is easy to clean. Empty them frequently to avoid odors or overflow. A simple $5 strainer can save you from a costly plumbing repair later.
Run Hot Water Regularly
Hot water helps wash away small amounts of grease and residue that might stick to your pipes. After using the sink, run hot water for a couple of minutes to keep your drains flowing smoothly and minimize buildup. You can also mix a tablespoon of dish soap with hot water and pour it down the drain once a day. The soap helps break down grease and food residue.
Be Careful with What You Flush Down the Drain
Not everything belongs in your garbage disposal. Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery, potato peels, or onion skins down the drain. These items can wrap around the disposal blades, causing jams. Bones, eggshells, and coffee grounds are also no-gos. These materials are hard to break down and can cause blockages further down the pipe.
When in doubt, throw it out. Keeping a small compost bin or trash can nearby makes it easier to dispose of food waste responsibly.
Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal can develop odors over time, especially during heavy use. Cleaning it regularly keeps it functioning well and smelling fresh. One simple method is to drop a few ice cubes and a handful of coarse salt into the disposal. Turn it on and let the ice clean the blades. Follow up with lemon or orange peels to eliminate odors.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
For a natural drain-cleaning solution, try baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This combination helps dissolve grease and clears minor clogs.
Do this once a week during the holidays to keep your drains in good shape.
Avoid Overloading the Sink
It’s easy to overload the sink with dirty dishes and food scraps during holiday cooking. However, this puts extra strain on your plumbing. Take breaks to clear dishes and run water in between batches. This prevents clogs and ensures your drains stay clear.
When to Call a Professional
Even with the best DIY efforts, some clogs require professional attention. If you notice water backing up, slow drains, or foul odors, it’s time to call for help. Rapid Action Rooter offers expert drain cleaning services to handle tough clogs and keep your plumbing running smoothly. A professional cleaning ensures your pipes are ready to handle the holiday rush.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way during the holidays. Following these tips can keep your drains clear and avoid unexpected plumbing problems. Proper grease disposal, regular cleaning, and mindful usage are simple habits that make a big difference. If you need professional assistance, Rapid Action Rooter is here to help. Enjoy a stress-free holiday season with clear and clog-free drains.
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