At Red Rock Plumbing, we understand that dealing with a clogged drain can be frustrating, time-consuming, and sometimes even costly. Before you reach for harsh chemicals or start taking apart your pipes, it’s helpful to understand the common causes of clogged drains and the most effective ways to address them. Armed with the right knowledge, you can often prevent future blockages and keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.Why Drains Get CloggedThere are several reasons why drains get clogged, and it’s usually due to a buildup of everyday materials. Some of the most frequent culprits include: Hair and Soap Scum: In bathroom sinks and showers, hair can easily get trapped in the drain and mix with soap residue to form stubborn clumps. These clogs can prevent water from draining properly and lead to slow-draining sinks or tubs.Food Scraps and Grease: In the kitchen, grease, oil, and leftover food particles can accumulate over time, lining the inside of your pipes and creating blockages. Even small amounts of grease that get washed down the drain can harden and lead to serious clogs.Foreign Objects: Items like paper towels, cotton swabs, and sanitary products can cause major blockages if flushed down the toilet. These materials don’t dissolve like toilet paper and may create significant obstacles in your plumbing system.Mineral Buildup: In areas with hard water, minerals can accumulate on the inside of your pipes, narrowing the pathway for water to flow. Over time, this can lead to reduced drainage and blockages that need professional attention. Use a Plunger: A plunger is a simple yet effective tool for dislodging clogs. Just make sure to form a tight seal around the drain and use steady, even pressure to break up the blockage.Try a Natural Remedy: Pouring a mixture of baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain can help loosen and dissolve some mild clogs. After the fizzing stops, rinse with hot water to wash away debris.Invest in a Drain Snake: A drain snake can help you reach deeper clogs that a plunger or homemade solution can’t handle. Gently feed the snake into the drain and rotate until you feel resistance, then slowly pull out to remove the clog. Use Drain Screens: A simple drain screen can catch hair and food scraps before they enter your plumbing system, making it easier to dispose of them in the trash.Dispose of Grease Properly: Instead of washing grease or oil down the drain, pour it into a container and toss it in the garbage once it solidifies.Flush with Hot Water: Running hot water down your drains regularly can help dissolve soap scum and wash away small particles before they accumulate.