5 Drain Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Let’s be honest—drain problems have a way of showing up at the worst possible moment. One day everything flows smoothly, and the next, you’re standing ankle-deep in murky shower water. But here’s the good news: with a little preventative care, you can avoid most drain disasters altogether.

In this post, you’ll learn five simple, practical drain maintenance tips that can save you time, stress, and money down the road. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just tired of calling the plumber, these tips will help keep things flowing freely.

1. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

This might sound obvious, but the best way to keep drains clear is to prevent clogs in the first place.

In the kitchen:

• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink.
• Use a mesh strainer to catch food scraps.
• Don’t rinse coffee grounds or starchy foods like rice and pasta.

In the bathroom:



• Use a hair catcher in the shower or tub.
• Avoid flushing wipes—even if they’re labeled “flushable.”
• Keep small items (like cotton swabs and floss) out of the toilet.

These small changes can make a big difference in how your pipes perform.

2. Use Natural Cleaners Regularly

Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh—not just on clogs but on your pipes as well. Instead, use natural alternatives to maintain clear drains without the risk of corrosion.

Here’s a quick homemade remedy:

• Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
• Follow with 1 cup of vinegar.
• Let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

Doing this once a month can help prevent buildup and odors.

3. Flush Drains with Hot Water Weekly

One of the simplest habits you can adopt is flushing your drains with hot water. This helps clear out soap scum, oils, and other residue before it hardens or accumulates.

Just run hot water down each sink and tub drain for a minute or two once a week. For kitchen sinks, follow it up with a few drops of dish soap to help break down grease.

4. Inspect and Clean Drain Stoppers

Drain stoppers and strainers can trap gunk and hair over time. If you’ve noticed water draining slower than usual, your stopper might be the culprit.

Every few weeks, remove and clean the stoppers in your sinks and tubs. Scrub off any debris and check that they’re functioning properly. It’s a quick task that can prevent bigger issues later.

5. Schedule Professional Maintenance Annually

Even with the best DIY care, some things are better left to the pros. An annual inspection by a trusted local plumber can catch early signs of wear, corrosion, or deep clogs you can’t see.

Look for a trusted provider like Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, which offers expert drain cleaning and repair. Their licensed technicians can help you avoid surprise emergencies and keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.

And if you're local, plumbing services Commerce City CO homeowners rely on are just a phone call away.

Case Study: A Clogged Kitchen Sink Saved in 30 Minutes

Kara, a homeowner in Commerce City, had a kitchen sink that started draining slowly over a few weeks. She tried hot water and baking soda, but it didn’t help. A quick call to Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain brought a technician out the same day. Within 30 minutes, the clog was cleared, and Kara learned it was due to grease buildup she didn’t realize was happening. The tech also gave her tips to avoid future problems—which she now follows religiously.

Taking care of your drains doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits and a little professional help when needed, you can keep water flowing and problems at bay.

Ready to protect your pipes? Schedule your annual drain inspection today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained home.