Most people don’t realize these 25 things are dangerous to put down the sink
25 Things You Should Never Put Down the Sink
Your kitchen sink is often a convenient place to dispose of waste, but it’s important to remember that not everything belongs in the drain. Pouring certain materials down the sink can clog pipes, cause expensive plumbing problems, or even harm the environment. Here are 25 things you should avoid putting down your sink:
1. Grease and Oil
While liquid when poured, grease and oil solidify as they cool, forming blockages in your pipes that can lead to costly repairs. They also contribute to the creation of « fatbergs » in municipal sewer systems.
2. Fatty Foods
Foods high in fat, like butter and lard, can create clogs when washed down the drain. These can harden and stick to pipes, leading to serious plumbing issues.
3. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds clump together and don’t dissolve, making them a major culprit in sink blockages. They easily build up over time and can form stubborn blockages.
4. Eggshells
Although they may seem harmless, eggshells don’t break down in water. Instead, they can mix with other materials, causing blockages in the pipes.
5. Paint and Paint Thinners
These chemicals are not only harmful to your plumbing but also to the water supply. Always dispose of paint and paint thinners according to local hazardous waste guidelines.
6. Cleaning Products
Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can corrode pipes and contaminate water sources. It’s best to avoid pouring these down the drain.
7. Bleach
While bleach can disinfect, it can also corrode pipes when poured down the sink. Additionally, when mixed with other substances, bleach can produce toxic fumes.
8. Medications
Flushing or pouring medications down the sink can lead to pharmaceutical contamination of the water supply, harming aquatic life. Take them to a proper disposal site instead.
9. Wet Wipes
Even « flushable » wet wipes don’t break down easily and can clog pipes. They can get stuck in the plumbing and cause backups.
10. Cotton Balls and Q-Tips
Cotton products absorb water and expand, leading to clogs. They don’t dissolve and can accumulate in your pipes over time.
11. Dental Floss
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