As the holiday season approaches, many of us in the Austin, Texas area are preparing for a Thanksgiving feast with our loved ones. It's a time for delicious food, warm gatherings, and expressing gratitude. However, one thing that often gets overlooked during this time of celebration is what goes down the drain. Failing to take proper precautions can lead to clogged pipes and unexpected plumbing issues. In this blog, we'll share some valuable insights on what not to put down your drain this Thanksgiving to ensure a smooth and hassle-free holiday.
1. Turkey Grease and Cooking Oils:
After roasting the Thanksgiving turkey, you'll have leftover grease and cooking oils. While it may be tempting to pour them down the drain, don't do it. Grease and oils can congeal in your pipes, creating blockages over time. Instead, let them cool, and then dispose of them in the trash or a designated grease disposal container.
2. Starchy Foods:
Mashed potatoes, stuffing, and other starchy side dishes are popular on Thanksgiving. However, starches can expand when they come into contact with water, potentially causing drain clogs. Scrape off leftover food into the trash before washing your dishes or using a strainer to catch any starchy particles.
3. Bones and Food Scraps:
Thanksgiving usually means a generous spread of food, but your kitchen sink isn't the place for disposing of bones and food scraps. These can easily block your pipes and lead to unpleasant odors. Use a compost bin or garbage disposal for organic waste, and throw bones away.
4. Fibrous Foods:
Vegetables like celery, asparagus, and artichokes have stringy, fibrous parts that can tangle and create drain blockages. Make sure to toss these in the trash rather than flushing them down the sink.
5. Coffee Grounds:
After a hearty Thanksgiving meal, many enjoy a cup of coffee. However, don't let coffee grounds find their way into your sink. They can accumulate in the pipes, causing clogs. Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them for compost.
6. Flushable Wipes:
If you're hosting guests for Thanksgiving, it's essential to remind them not to flush flushable wipes. Despite their name, these wipes can cause plumbing problems as they do not disintegrate as easily as toilet paper. Encourage guests to dispose of them in a designated bin.
This Thanksgiving, take steps to keep your plumbing in good shape and avoid unexpected issues. By being mindful of what goes down your drain, you can ensure a clog-free and enjoyable holiday season with your family in Austin, Texas. If you ever encounter plumbing problems or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to your local family-owned plumbing company for professional help. Wishing you a Happy and Stress-Free Thanksgiving!