When it comes to drains, not all blockages are caused by big items trying to make their way down your pipes. Some are due to accumulations of small, and sometimes unexpected, things.

Get a plunger or a plumber ready – here are five reasons for that clogged drain.

1. Hair

Finding a strand or two might not be the biggest red flag, but if you see clumps of hair making their way towards your drainage hole, be sure to collect them before they go down the drain. Clumps of hair can clog up the system and cause it to back up.

2. Soap

Yes, soap – specifically the bar variety. The materials used in bar soaps are made up of fatty acids that react with minerals. The scum from the bar often falls and enters your drain, which can cause it to clog.

3. Dust and dirt

Some of you might routinely wash your feet upon coming home or before going to bed. Dust and dirt from your soles can accumulate into large deposits in your drain.

4. Coffee grounds

Ground coffee, like dirt, can be trouble for your pipes as it can dry up and clog your drain. Make sure you properly discard any coffee residue before washing your cup.

5. Food particles

Fibrous ingredients such as flour, noodles and potatoes can clump or expand when in contact with water, while food waste that goes down the sinkhole can clog your pipes. Use a sinkhole filter to trap and discard food particles properly.

This article first appeared in kaodim.com.

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