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Blocked drains - why prevention is better than cure

September 18, 2023

Domestic & commercial blocked drains can be a nightmare

Blocked drains - why prevention is better than cure

Blocked drains disrupts your day, it wreaks havoc in premises - and it can cost a lot of money to remedy the problem. 


So how do we avoid all these unpleasant consequences? 


The answer is simple: Prevention is better than cure. 


Being mindful of what we put down the drain is the first step to preventing blocked drains. 


While most sinks are equipped to handle small food scraps or bits of hair, other items should never pass through the pipes. 


From wet wipes and cooking oils to coffee grounds and cigarette butts, there are many things you should avoid flushing down the toilet or pushing down the sink if you want to keep your drains clear and unobstructed. 


In this article, we'll look at some of the common culprits behind blocked drains so that you can take practical steps to avoid them!

Blocked Toilets


Have you ever encountered a clogged toilet in your home? You’re not alone. 


Blocked drains are an increasingly common issue – and what’s even more disconcerting is that most clogging occurrences can be avoided if we just pay more attention to what goes down the drain! 


From cotton balls to cooking oil, many everyday items have no business being disposed of in your toilet - because trying to flush them will only lead to one inevitable result: a slow, backed-up loo. 


Here’s a outline of not what to flush down your toilet:


  • It is important to take care when flushing items down the toilet - certain objects do not belong in the drain system!
  • Avoid putting wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, nappies, dental floss, and sanitary products into the toilet; these items often do not fully break down and can cause blockages in the drain.
  • Be mindful of other items as well, such as hair, grease, food waste, and cat litter.


Blocked Drains


Blocked drains can be a major headache for any home or business. 


From nasty backups to foul odours, clogged plumbing often leads to increased stress and costly repairs. 


Although some blockages are caused by tree roots or other external factors, many of them stem from improper disposal of household items down sinks, toilets, and drains.


Here’s a rundown of common causes for blocked drains:


  • Avoid pouring cooking oil, fat, or grease down your sink as these substances can solidify in the pipes and cause a blockage
  • Refrain from putting food scraps or fibrous vegetables in the drain as these items can quickly accumulate and cause a backup
  • Do not flush any personal hygiene products down the toilet as they can form a blockage in the plumbing system
  • Coffee grounds, eggshells, and animal bones should never be disposed of through your sink as these items can severely clog the pipes
  • Be aware of even small objects such as hair strands, cotton swabs, or dental floss that may find their way into the drain and inadvertently trigger a clog


Who to call if you have a blocked drain?


If you have a blocked drain, Commercial Drainage Services Essex Ltd is the perfect choice. 


With over 40 years of experience in drainage services, our team of experts are highly trained to provide fast, reliable and cost-effective solutions to your problems. 


Our commitment to customer satisfaction and quality of service means that whatever issue you have, we'll take care of it – restoring peace of mind to your home or business. 


Get in touch with Commercial Drainage Services Essex Ltd today and let us take care of your drainage needs.



Geoff Ward Director of Commercial Drainage Services Essex CDS Ltd

Geoff Ward


If you have a question about this or any of our blogs, or services then please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

We will always try and answer your question quickly and professionally. 

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