Most people don’t realize these 25 things are dangerous to put down the sink

August 25, 2025 by admin

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### 10. Food Scraps from Garbage Disposals

Not all food scraps should go down the disposal. Fibrous vegetables like celery or onion skins can tangle and jam.

### 11. Nut Shells

Hard and indigestible, they can cause damage to garbage disposals and clog pipes.

### 12. Seeds and Pits

Like nut shells, these can clog and damage pipes or disposals.

### 13. Rice and Quinoa

These expand significantly and create stubborn blockages.

### 14. Pasta

Like rice, pasta swells and can clog drains.

### 15. Dental Floss

Non-biodegradable and stringy, floss can wrap around pipes and create blockages.

### 16. Paper Towels and Wet Wipes

They don’t break down easily and often cause plumbing problems.

### 17. Cat Litter

Not designed to dissolve, it clumps and blocks pipes quickly.

### 18. Hair

Strands of hair easily tangle and clog drains, especially in bathroom sinks.

### 19. Cigarette Butts

Containing toxins and non-biodegradable materials, they’re harmful to plumbing and the environment.

### 20. Medications

Flushing pills contaminates water supplies. Dispose of medications at designated collection points.

### 21. Plastic Items

Plastic never breaks down and will cause major blockages.

### 22. Chewing Gum

Sticky and non-biodegradable, gum clogs pipes.

### 23. Paint Thinners and Varnishes

Highly toxic and damaging, these should be taken to hazardous waste disposal.

### 24. Food Packaging Pieces

Tiny bits of wrappers or foil can cause blockages and damage to plumbing.

### 25. Small Toys and Non-Food Items

Accidental drops can lead to costly repairs and blockages.

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### What to Do Instead

* **Dispose of grease and oils in sealed containers and toss in trash**
* **Compost food scraps where possible**
* **Recycle hazardous materials at proper disposal centers**
* **Use strainers to catch debris before it enters the drain**
* **Regularly clean your drains with safe, non-toxic methods**

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### Why It Matters

Avoiding these 25 items protects your plumbing from costly repairs, keeps your home safe from unpleasant backups, and helps reduce pollution in our waterways. When in doubt, think twice before putting something down the sink—it might be doing more harm than good.

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### Final Thoughts

Your sink is not a trash can! By being mindful of what you pour or rinse down your drains, you’ll extend the life of your plumbing, save money on repairs, and contribute to a healthier environment. Share this list with family and friends—everyone deserves a clog-free sink!

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Want more home maintenance tips? Just ask!