Your Bathroom Habits: 3 Things Your Plumber Always Knows

Bathroom plumbing is something we rely on daily without giving it much thought. However, your habits in the bathroom may be revealing more than you think, at least to your plumber. From what’s flushed down the toilet to how clogs are handled, your pipes can tell a detailed story. At Rooter Man Plumbing, we’ve encountered it all, and certain trends emerge time and time again. Here are three things local plumbers consistently notice about bathroom habits and how you can avoid common pitfalls.

What Are You Flushing?

Toilets are built to dispose of human waste and toilet paper. Yet, many people treat them as secondary trash cans. Items like “flushable” wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and dental floss can find their way down the toilet. Despite marketing claims, most of these items don’t break down properly in water, which leads to clogs and damage in your bathroom plumbing system. Plumbers can tell when these habits are at play. Blockages formed by non-biodegradable materials are one of the most common issues we see. These clogs lead to slow drainage, backups, or more severe damage to sewer lines. The best way to prevent this is to flush only toilet paper and human waste. Keep a trash bin nearby for everything else.

Long Hair and Bathroom Drains

If someone in your home has long hair, your plumber doesn’t need to be told. Hair buildup in bathroom drains is one of the most common causes of slow drainage and persistent clogs. Hair combines with soap scum, conditioner, and other residues to form dense, sticky tangles that are nearly impossible to remove without professional intervention. While shedding hair in the shower is natural, you can minimize its impact by using a drain cover or hair catcher. These inexpensive tools are highly effective in catching hair before it enters your pipes. Cleaning the catcher regularly will help maintain water flow. When clogs persist despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in a professional plumbing service. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to drainage issues can save you from the headache of standing in a backed-up shower or sink.

Use of Chemical Drain Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are marketed as quick and easy solutions to clogged drains. However, these products come with serious downsides. Their harsh chemicals can corrode your pipes over time, especially in older plumbing systems. Plumbers can typically identify homes where these cleaners have been overused by the visible wear and damage to the pipes. Chemical cleaners don’t always resolve the issue either. They may dissolve enough of the clog to restore water flow for a short time, but the remaining debris continues to build up. Over time, this can lead to even more severe blockages that require professional intervention. If you’re dealing with persistent clogs, it’s best to avoid chemical cleaners and call a trusted plumbing repair service.

Why Your Plumbing Habits Matter

Everyday bathroom habits might seem harmless enough, but over time, they can have a dramatic impact on your plumbing system. Flushing inappropriate items, neglecting hair buildup, or relying on harsh chemical cleaners can all lead to damage that requires emergency repairs. Fortunately, small changes in how you care for your bathroom plumbing can make a major difference. Plumbers in Kent, WA can educate homeowners on best practices to keep their systems working. Whether you need routine maintenance or urgent repairs, our team is here to help you maintain a healthy plumbing system so you can avoid stressful problems.

 Is It Time to Invest in a Professional Plumbing Repair?

Don’t let bad habits lead to expensive plumbing issues. Rooter Man is here to provide dependable and high-quality plumbing services. Whether you’re facing a minor issue or a major emergency, we offer solutions that work. From clearing stubborn clogs to offering preventative maintenance, we’re here to make sure your bathroom plumbing works flawlessly. Contact us to schedule an inspection or to learn more about our services.