Clogged drains are one of the most common—and most frustrating—plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink in the kitchen or standing water in the shower, these issues can disrupt your daily routine and lead to expensive repairs if left untreated.

The good news? With a few smart habits and simple maintenance steps, you can keep your drains flowing freely and avoid those stubborn clogs altogether. Here’s how.

Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

Kitchen Drain Tips

Your kitchen sink isn’t a garbage can. Avoid pouring grease, oils, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the drain. Even if you have a garbage disposal, it’s best to scrape leftovers into the trash or compost bin.

Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and clean it out regularly. This one simple tool can save you from serious clogs over time.

Bathroom Drain Tips

Hair, soap scum, and personal care products like toothpaste or shaving cream are common culprits for bathroom clogs. Install drain covers in your shower and sink to catch hair and debris before they cause a blockage.

Flush with Hot Water

Once a week, run hot water down your drains to help dissolve soap and grease buildup. For extra cleaning power, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. This natural solution is safe, effective, and chemical-free.

Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners

While it might be tempting to grab a bottle of store-bought drain cleaner, these products often do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals can erode your pipes over time and may only temporarily clear the clog—leaving the underlying issue unresolved.

If you're dealing with repeated clogs, it's time to call in a professional.

Clean Drain Stoppers and Traps

Take a few minutes each month to remove and clean your drain stoppers. Hair and grime can easily get caught and slow down drainage. You can also remove the P-trap (the curved pipe under your sink) to check for blockages. Just make sure to place a bucket underneath first!

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Sometimes, the best way to avoid clogs is by letting the professionals handle it. A routine plumbing inspection can catch early signs of buildup or pipe damage that you might miss. Preventative maintenance saves you money in the long run and keeps your plumbing system running smoothly.

Keep Things Flowing with Help from Lloyds Plumbing

Clogs are a hassle—but they don’t have to be part of your routine. With a little care and attention, you can keep your kitchen and bathroom drains clear and trouble-free.

If you're experiencing slow drains or recurring clogs, don’t wait for a bigger problem. Contact Lloyds Plumbing today at (805) 495-8766 to schedule a drain inspection or cleaning. We’ll keep everything flowing—so you don’t have to worry about a thing.