Tackling Blocked Drains After Indulging in Festive Feasts

The holiday season brings joy, laughter, and a plethora of delicious, indulgent meals.

However, the aftermath of festive cooking and feasting can often lead to a common household woe – blocked drains. With the abundance of greasy Christmas foods, such as roasts, deep-fried treats, and rich desserts, it’s essential to be mindful of how these culinary delights can impact your plumbing and drainage system. Lets explore the causes of blocked drains during the holiday season and provide practical tips to keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

The Culprit: Greasy Residue

One of the primary contributors to blocked drains during Christmas is the accumulation of greasy residues in the kitchen sink. Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from cooking can solidify in the pipes, creating stubborn blockages that impede the flow of water.

Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain

Prevention is the first line of defence against blocked drains. Instead of pouring leftover grease down the sink, allow it to cool and solidify in a disposable container. Once solidified, discard it in the recycling bin. This simple practice can significantly reduce the amount of grease entering your drains.

Scrape Plates Before Washing

Before washing dishes in the sink, take a moment to scrape off excess food particles into the trash. This prevents solid materials from entering the drain and combines with grease to create clogs.

Use Mesh Drain Guards

Installing mesh drain guards over your kitchen sink and shower drains can catch food particles, hair, and other debris, preventing them from entering the plumbing system. Regularly clean these guards to maintain their effectiveness.

Hot Water and Dish Soap

Run hot water down the drain regularly, especially after cooking greasy meals. Adding a small amount of dish soap can help break down grease and prevent it from clinging to the pipes. This simple routine can assist in keeping the drains clear.

Homemade Drain Cleaning Solutions

If you notice slow drainage, consider using natural drain cleaning solutions. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help break down grease and clear minor blockages. Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain, and then flush it with hot water after 15 minutes.

Professional Drain Cleaning

For persistent blockages or slow drainage issues, it’s advisable to seek professional help. And that is where we come in.  We are drainage specialists in Glasgow and we can use specialised tools, such as drain snakes or hydro-jetting, to clear stubborn clogs effectively. We always advise regular professional drain cleaning to also prevent potential blockages.

Educate Household Members

Ensure that everyone in your household is aware of the importance of proper waste disposal. Educate family members and guests about the potential consequences of pouring grease down the drain and encourage responsible kitchen habits. It might not sound like a fun conversation to have but which would you rather do.  Briefly tell everyone to not pour grease down the drain or be walking around in drainage overflow because of a blocked drain pipe?

While the holidays are a time for celebration and feasting, it’s crucial to be mindful of the impact our culinary habits can have on household plumbing. By adopting simple preventive measures, such as avoiding the disposal of grease down the drain, using mesh drain guards, and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can minimise the risk of blocked drains and ensure a smooth flow throughout the festive season. If issues persist, don’t hesitate to call us to address the problem promptly and efficiently. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a clog-free and stress-free holiday season.