Skip to content 
Here at Sydney’s Blocked Drains, we are usually educating people about the common things that find there way into the drainage system and end up causing a problem. Such common items are sanitary items, hair, grease, baby wipes and more. While these are the types of items that we most commonly see, this blog will explore some of the more uncommon items that we find which can still wreak havoc in your pipes. Ideally, it is best for nothing to go down your pipes except for water (or the obvious things in the toilet). It is quite alarming that so many people do not know this and will try to put all sorts of things down the drain. We recommend rather, to put a bin in every room and try to dispose of everything in the trash instead. This way, less foreign objects and substances are finding their way into the drainage system that are causing damage to wildlife and causing blockages. Without further ado, here are some unusual things that will clog up your pipes.
Kitty Litter
We have to admit, advertisers are a little to blame here. Time and time again we see kitty litter advertised as “flush friendly” and we just shake our heads in disbelief. When you take a closer look at kitty litter, it is designed to absorb liquids, so it only makes sense that it will absorb liquid in the pipes and cause an issue. This is especially the case when kitty litter is consistently put down a drain over time. If you could do one thing for the health of your pipes, put kitty litter in a plastic bag instead and dispose of it in the bin.
Paint
Even though it would seem like common sense that paint cannot go down the drain, many people still do this. No only can this cause issues long term, but the chemicals in the paint can negatively affect the water and the eco-system. It is wise to instead wash paint brushes over a bucket and pour that water into a plastic bag to put into the bin or the water can be left in the sun to dry. Similarly, the best way to get rid of a can of paint is to open the lid and to let the paint inside the can dry. When it is completely dry it can then be disposed of in the bin. It is also important to not pour paint into the garden as it can again cause havoc in the eco-system.
Dead Animals
There are so many movies out there that show people flushing their dead fish or mice down the toilet. This is a big no-no and can absolutely cause a blockage in the pipe work. If it is possible, it is best to bury any dead animals no matter how small. If this is not possible, then it is wise to simply wrap them in tissue or put them in a box and place them in the bin. This way, there won’t be any nasty surprises in the future.
Have a question or want to request a quote?
Please contact us to get in touch. One of our friendly team members will get back to you as soon as possible.
