Hair is something that everyone has, and it can be tempting to just let it wash down the drain when you’re in the shower or in front of the sink. But is that really a good idea? Let’s take a look at whether or not it’s bad to put hair down the drain.
The effect of putting hair down the drain
Putting hair down the drain is bad, and can have some serious consequences. It may seem like a small thing, but when hair accumulates over time, the effects can be disastrous. Hair clogs drains and pipes and prevents water from flowing freely. This can lead to backups in your plumbing system that cause damage and require costly repairs.
When you shower or wash your hands at the sink, tiny strands of hair will make their way into the plumbing system where they become tangled with soap scum and other debris that builds up over time. Eventually, this buildup becomes so great that water cannot flow through properly, leading to slow-draining sinks or even complete blockages in your home’s plumbing system which could require professional repair services to fix.
Alternatives to putting hair down the drain
If you want to avoid the consequences of putting hair down the drain, there are a few alternatives that you can try.
One option is to use a drain cover or screen in your sinks and showers which will catch any stray strands of hair before they make their way into the plumbing system. This means fewer clogs and blockages, as well as less hassle trying to clear away the buildup in your pipes. Just be sure that your drain covers are cleaned regularly to prevent them from becoming clogged with hair and other debris as well.
Another option is to use a drain de-clogging product which helps break down hair and other debris that can accumulate over time. This will help keep your plumbing system functioning properly with minimal effort on your part. Keeping your drain clean on a routine basis is the best way to prevent major problems down the road.
A third option is ensuring you dispose of hair properly. If you finish showering and see hair on the floor of the shower or sink, be sure to throw it in the trash rather than down the drain. This will ensure that your hair does not contribute to clogs and blockages in your plumbing system over time. Simply grab tissue paper or a washcloth, pick up the hair from the floor, and throw it in the trash can.
What to do if you have hair clogging your shower or sink drain
If homeowners find themselves with a clogged drain due to hair, there are several methods they can take to try and fix the situation. For starters, they can try using a plunger or snake to physically remove the clog. However, this may not be effective if the clog is deep in the pipes or is particularly dense.
Another option is unscrewing the drain cover and physically removing the clog with a pair of pliers or tweezers. This is often the best approach, as it allows you to identify what is causing the clog and take steps to prevent it in the future. However, if the clog is too deep in the pipes or is made up of something other than hair, this method may not be effective.
Another option is using a chemical drain cleaner. These products contain harsh chemicals that can break down the buildup in your pipes, allowing water to flow freely once again. However, these cleaners can be damaging to your pipes if used incorrectly or too often, so it’s important to use them with caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
If all else fails, homeowners may need to call in a professional plumber to help fix the problem. These professionals have access to advanced tools and techniques that can address even the most stubborn clogs, saving you time and stress.