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The Gross Truth About What’s Lurking in Your Drains

07/Oct/2025
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Nobody wants to deal with a clogged drain, but it’s a common occurrence in homes. However, keeping your drains in peak condition begins with knowing what’s lurking in the drainpipes. Soap scum, accumulated grease, hair, and mineral deposits are among the most common culprits behind clogged drains. Smart homeowners know that having an experienced plumber on speed dial is one of the effective ways to keep your plumbing in great shape.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a premier plumbing company that specializes in drain cleaning. Our plumbers understand the common causes of clogged drains thanks to their industry experience. Give us a call when you’re looking for a professional plumber to clean your drains. Today, we’ll reveal the truth about what could be lurking in your drains. If you ever find yourself in need of drain cleaning services, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing.

Grime and Bacteria

Every time you wash dishes, take a shower, or rinse your hands, bits of organic material slip down the drain. Over time, this material sticks to the pipe walls, forming a sticky biofilm that traps more debris. What results is a slimy mess that harbors bacteria, mold, and even tiny pests. The longer it sits there, the worse it gets. Not only does this buildup cause bad smells, but it can also release airborne contaminants that affect your indoor air quality and potentially your health.

Grease, Hair, and Soap Scum

Three of the biggest culprits of drain trouble are grease, hair, and soap scum. Grease solidifies as it cools, sticking to your pipes like glue. Hair tangles and traps other materials, creating dense clogs that slow water flow. Soap scum, meanwhile, hardens into a chalky film that narrows your pipes and attracts even more grime. Together, they form a thick, sticky mass that’s nearly impossible to remove without professional help. Over time, this buildup can cause backups, slow drains, and even corrosion in older plumbing systems. The good news is, flushing your drains with hot water on a regular basis can help you keep your drains in great shape. Also, hiring a qualified plumbing repair service to perform regular drain line maintenance can help keep the entire drain line in peak condition.

What That Smell Really Means

If you’ve ever noticed a foul odor coming from your kitchen or bathroom drains, that’s your plumbing’s way of warning you something isn’t right. The smell usually comes from decomposing organic matter that’s trapped in the pipes. In severe cases, the odor can indicate a partial clog or even sewer gas escaping due to a broken seal. These issues don’t just make your home unpleasant; they can also expose you to harmful bacteria and gases. Make sure you call a nearby plumbing repair service to clean your drains before things get worse.

The Dangers of Ignoring Dirty Drains

When left untreated, clogged or dirty drains can cause more than just bad smells or slow water flow. They can lead to major plumbing problems, including pipe corrosion, leaks, and sewage backups. In some cases, the buildup becomes so thick that it blocks the entire pipe, requiring expensive repairs or replacements. Regular drain cleaning helps prevent these costly issues and keeps your plumbing system running smoothly for years.

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today to Schedule Drain Cleaning Service

If you’ve tried unclogging your drains using DIY techniques without success, call the specialists at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We have over 40 years of experience in plumbing and have been helping homeowners and businesses for years. With thousands of 5-star reviews, you can rely on our skilled plumbers to keep your drains flowing smoothly. Call us now or fill out the contact us form to book an appointment.

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