Preventing Drain Clogs in Dallas, Oregon: What Not to Put Down Your Drains

When it comes to maintaining your plumbing system, preventing clogs is one of the easiest ways to save time, money, and stress. Here in Dallas, Oregon, we see plenty of calls from homeowners dealing with clogged drains — and most of the time, the culprit is something that should never have gone down the sink in the first place.

In this post, we’ll cover the most common causes of drain clogs and share helpful tips to keep your plumbing flowing freely.

Why Drain Clogs Happen

Your plumbing system is designed to handle water and, in kitchen and bathroom sinks, small amounts of everyday use. However, many household items can stick to the inside of your pipes, build up over time, and cause blockages. What seems harmless in the moment often leads to slow drains, foul odors, or even full backups later.

Top Items to Avoid Putting Down Drains

Here are the biggest offenders we see in Dallas homes:

1. Grease, Fats, and Oils

When poured down the sink, grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this creates thick blockages that are difficult to remove. Instead, collect grease in a container and throw it in the trash.

2. Coffee Grounds

Even though they seem small, coffee grounds clump together and create stubborn clogs. Always dispose of them in the garbage or compost pile.

3. Eggshells

The shell fragments and membrane can combine with other debris to form tough, gritty clogs. Compost them instead of rinsing them down the sink.

4. Rice, Pasta, and Bread

These foods expand when exposed to water, making them one of the sneakiest causes of drain clogs. Throw leftovers in the trash or compost bin.

5. “Flushable” Wipes and Paper Products

Despite the label, wipes do not break down like toilet paper. They can block sewer lines and lead to costly repairs. Stick to flushing only toilet paper.

6. Hair and Soap Scum

In bathroom drains, hair easily tangles and combines with soap scum, leading to slow drainage. Use a simple drain strainer to catch hair before it enters the pipes.

7. Cat Litter

Even litter labeled “flushable” is a recipe for clogs. Litter expands and creates cement-like blockages in your pipes. Always dispose of it in the trash.

Signs Your Drain May Already Be Clogged

• Slow draining sinks, showers, or tubs

• Gurgling noises from drains

• Unpleasant odors coming from sinks

• Backups or standing water

If you’re experiencing these issues, it’s best to call a licensed plumber in Dallas, Oregon before the problem gets worse.

Professional Drain Cleaning in Dallas, Oregon

At Spectrum Plumbing, we offer thorough drain cleaning services to keep your pipes clear and your home protected. Whether it’s a small clog or a major backup, our family-owned business has the expertise (backed by over 22 years of plumbing experience) to get your drains flowing again.

We proudly serve Dallas, Oregon and the surrounding Willamette Valley communities with honest work, fair pricing, and no upsells.

Final Thoughts

Preventing drain clogs starts with knowing what not to put down your drains. By avoiding grease, wipes, food scraps, and other common culprits, you can protect your plumbing system and avoid unexpected repairs.

If you do run into trouble, Spectrum Plumbing is here to help. Call us today to schedule drain cleaning or learn more about our services.

📞 503-917-3259
🌐 spectrumplumbingllc.com