Blocked drains are a common issue faced by homeowners, often resulting in inconvenience and sometimes costly repairs. By understanding the root causes and how to prevent them, you can save yourself a great deal of hassle and keep your bathroom functioning efficiently. Read on to explore the primary causes of bathroom drain blockages and offer insights to help you maintain a clear and flowing drainage system.

Hair Accumulation

One of the most frequent culprits of blocked bathroom drains is hair. Hair sheds naturally during showers or grooming activities, and over time, it begins to accumulate within the pipes. When combined with soap residue, it forms clumps that obstruct water flow entirely. This issue is particularly prevalent in households with individuals who have long hair, but it can affect any home. Regular cleaning of the drain cover and the use of hair catchers can help reduce this problem significantly.

Soap Scum and Residue

Though soap may seem harmless, many soap bars are made with grease or fat-based ingredients that can contribute to drain blockages. When combined with hard water minerals, soap creates a residue known as soap scum, which builds up on the walls of pipes over time. Switching to liquid soap or rinsing your drain with hot water regularly may help mitigate this problem.

Build-up of Bathroom Products

The excessive use of creams, lotions and shampoos can also lead to drain blockages. These products often contain oils or other heavy materials that can stick to the pipes and trap other debris as it passes through your drainage system. Over time, this accumulation results in a blocked drain. Using such products sparingly and ensuring regular cleaning can alleviate the chances of a blockage forming.

Foreign Objects

Items such as cotton buds, hair ties, or other small objects can accidentally be dropped into drains and cause an obstruction. This is particularly common in families with young children, who may flush unsuitable objects down the drain out of curiosity. Preventing such incidents involves educating family members on what should and shouldn’t go down the drain, coupled with the use of drain covers to stop objects from entering the pipes.

Hard Water Deposits

For those living in areas with hard water, limescale can be a major contributor to blocked bathroom drains. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which crystallise over time and adhere to the pipe walls. These deposits gradually narrow the pathway for water flow and attract other debris, compounding the blockage. Installing a water softener can be an effective long-term solution for combating this issue.

Learn more about blocked drain clearing today.