Drain Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts: What Plumbers Want You to Know

A slow or clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. While it’s tempting to grab a bottle of store-bought drain cleaner and pour it down the sink, that quick fix can actually cause more harm than good. Understanding the right way to maintain your drains can save you from costly repairs, pipe damage, and messy plumbing disasters.



At Heartland Mechanical Contracting, we help Bellevue, IA homeowners keep their plumbing systems running smoothly. Here’s what you need to know about safe and effective drain cleaning, including when it’s time to call in the professionals.

The Truth About Store-Bought Drain Cleaners

Many homeowners turn to chemical drain cleaners as a first solution to a clog, but most plumbers strongly advise against using them. Here’s why:

❌ Why Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Are a Bad Idea

✔ Corrosion & Pipe Damage – Many commercial drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals like sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide, which can eat away at your pipes over time—especially in older homes with PVC or metal piping.

✔ Temporary Fix, Not a Solution – Chemical cleaners may dissolve part of a clog, but they rarely clear the entire blockage, leading to recurring problems.

✔ Toxic Fumes & Health Hazards – The fumes from chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to breathe in, especially in poorly ventilated areas.

✔ Dangerous for Septic Systems – If your home has a septic tank, chemical cleaners can disrupt the natural bacteria needed for proper wastewater breakdown, leading to septic system issues.

🔧 The better option? Try DIY-friendly drain maintenance methods or call a licensed plumber for professional drain cleaning.

The Best DIY Drain Maintenance Tips

Preventing clogs before they happen is the easiest way to keep your drains running smoothly. Here are some plumber-approved tips for maintaining your drains:

✅ DO: Use Natural Drain Cleaners

Instead of harsh chemicals, try a natural mix of baking soda and vinegar to break down minor clogs:
1️⃣ Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
2️⃣ Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.
3️⃣ Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

✔ This method helps remove buildup without damaging your pipes.

✅ DO: Flush Your Drains with Hot Water

Once a week, run hot (but not boiling) water down your kitchen sink to help break down grease, soap scum, and residue before they harden inside your pipes.

✅ DO: Install Drain Strainers

Hair, food scraps, and soap scum are leading causes of drain clogs. Use a drain strainer in sinks and showers to catch debris before it enters your pipes.

✅ DO: Be Mindful of What You Put Down the Drain

🚫 Never pour these down the drain:

• Grease, fats, and oils
• Coffee grounds
• Eggshells
• Starchy foods (rice, pasta, potatoes)
• Hair & soap scum (bathroom drains)

Keeping these items out of your plumbing will prevent clogs and extend the life of your pipes.

When to Call a Plumber for Professional Drain Cleaning

Sometimes, DIY solutions aren’t enough. If you're experiencing any of the following issues, it's time to call Heartland Mechanical Contracting for professional drain cleaning services:

❌ Signs You Need a Plumber:

✔ Frequent Clogs – If your sink or shower keeps clogging despite home remedies, there may be a deeper blockage.

✔ Slow Drains in Multiple Areas – When more than one drain is slow, it could indicate a main sewer line problem.

✔ Gurgling Sounds or Bubbles – If your drains make strange noises when water goes down, it might be a sign of air pockets caused by a clog.

✔ Sewage Smells from Drains – Foul odors coming from your drains may indicate a partial sewer line blockage or venting issue.

✔ Water Backing Up – If water is coming back up through your sinks, shower, or floor drains, there’s likely a severe blockage that requires professional equipment.

🔧 What We Do: Our licensed plumbers use advanced tools like drain augers, hydro jetting, and camera inspections to remove tough clogs and restore your plumbing.

Protect Your Drains with Professional Help

At Heartland Mechanical Contracting, we believe that proper drain care starts with prevention. Whether you need routine maintenance or emergency drain cleaning, our team is ready to help.