Top 15+ Common Home Habits That Could Be Harming Your Plumbing

Flushing “Flushable” Wipes Down the Toilet

Many people assume that wipes labeled “flushable” are safe for their toilets, but this is far from the truth. Wastewater treatment organizations like the National Association of Clean Water Agencies have reported a significant increase in sewer blockages due to these wipes.

Unlike toilet paper, which breaks down quickly in water, so-called flushable wipes remain intact for days, causing them to clump together and create stubborn clogs. Homeowners often face expensive repairs because of this simple habit.

In fact, a 2024 study found that nearly 80% of sewer blockages in the US were partly caused by wipes. Even if the packaging says “flushable,” it’s best to toss wipes in the trash.

Pouring Grease and Cooking Oils Down the Sink

Grease might slide easily down your drain when it’s hot, but as it cools, it solidifies and clings to your pipes. Over time, this sticky mess can trap food scraps and other debris, leading to slow drains and even full-blown blockages.

The Environmental Protection Agency warns that grease buildup is the number one cause of sewer overflows in American homes. Even if you run hot water after pouring grease, it only moves the problem further down the line.

The best way to dispose of grease is to let it cool and throw it in the trash—your pipes will thank you.

Ignoring Slow Drains

It’s easy to shrug off a slow drain as a minor annoyance, but it’s often a warning sign of a bigger issue. According to plumbing professionals, slow drains can indicate the early stages of a clog, pipe corrosion, or even tree roots infiltrating your sewer line.

Waiting too long can turn a simple fix into a costly emergency. In 2023, the average cost of clearing a serious drain blockage was reported to be over $350.

Don’t ignore the signs—address slow drains early to avoid major headaches down the road.

Using Chemical Drain Cleaners Frequently

When faced with a clog, many people reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner. These products promise quick results, but they come with serious risks.

Most chemical cleaners use harsh ingredients like lye or sulfuric acid, which can eat away at metal pipes and damage PVC over time. The American Society of Home Inspectors notes that repeated use of these chemicals can weaken pipe walls, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts.

Mechanical methods, like plungers or drain snakes, are much safer for your plumbing.

Overloading the Garbage Disposal

It’s tempting to push every bit of kitchen waste down the garbage disposal, but these machines have their limits. Items like eggshells, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables can jam the blades or cause clogs further down the line.

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association warns that potato peels and pasta, which expand with water, are especially notorious for causing problems. Running your disposal with too much food at once can also strain the motor, shortening its lifespan.

Always feed waste in small amounts and run plenty of cold water.

Flushing Non-Toilet Paper Items

Aside from wipes, many people flush items like cotton swabs, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products. These materials don’t break down in water and can quickly lead to clogs.

Statistics from municipal wastewater plants show that non-flushable items are responsible for thousands of blockages every year, costing cities millions in maintenance. If it’s not toilet paper or human waste, it shouldn’t go down the toilet—keep a small trash can nearby to make the right choice easier.

Letting Hair Go Down the Shower Drain

Hair is one of the most common causes of shower drain clogs. Strands easily bind together, snagging soap and debris to form dense, stubborn blockages.

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommends using a simple drain screen to catch hair before it enters your pipes. If you regularly pull hair out by the handful after showering, your pipes are likely suffering too.

Installing a catch can prevent a big mess later.

Neglecting to Replace Washing Machine Hoses

Washing machine hoses don’t last forever. Over time, rubber hoses can crack, bulge, or even burst—flooding your laundry room in minutes.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety estimates that washing machine hose failures cost homeowners more than $150 million in water damage every year. Experts suggest replacing hoses every five years with braided stainless steel options for extra durability.

A quick check can save you thousands in repairs.

Misusing Toilet Tank Tablets

Toilet cleaning tablets that promise a sparkling bowl often contain harsh chemicals. While they keep toilets looking fresh, they can slowly corrode rubber gaskets and seals inside the tank.

The result? Running toilets and costly leaks.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has received complaints about premature toilet part failures linked to these tablets. For safer cleaning, scrub the bowl manually and avoid dropping tablets into your tank.

Hanging Objects from Exposed Pipes

Some homeowners use exposed pipes in basements or laundry rooms as convenient places to hang clothes or storage. However, these pipes aren’t designed to support extra weight.

Over time, this habit can loosen joints or even cause the pipes to sag and leak. The National Association of Home Builders recommends treating pipes with care and never using them as makeshift racks.

It’s a small habit that can lead to big plumbing problems.

Ignoring Leaky Faucets

A dripping faucet might seem harmless, but it can waste an astonishing amount of water—up to 3,000 gallons a year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Beyond water waste, constant drips can wear out washers and valve seats, leading to more serious leaks. Over time, that moisture can contribute to mold growth under sinks and cabinets.

Fixing a leaky faucet promptly is a simple way to save money and protect your plumbing.

Using the Toilet as a Trash Can

It’s easy to toss small bits of trash, like tissues or wrappers, into the toilet, but this habit can overburden your plumbing. Toilets are only designed to handle human waste and toilet paper.

Non-degradable items can get stuck in pipes or the main sewer line, leading to nasty backups. Municipalities report that “fatbergs”—large masses of garbage and grease—are increasingly found in sewers, driven by improper flushing habits.

Treat your toilet with care and stick to the basics.

Running Water While Brushing Teeth or Washing Dishes Unnecessarily

Leaving the water running during daily tasks not only wastes water but can also overwork your plumbing. Continuous pressure increases wear on pipes and fixtures, potentially shortening their lifespan.

The EPA estimates that turning off the tap while brushing teeth can save up to 8 gallons of water per day per person. Small changes in water use can make a big difference for your plumbing—and your utility bill.

Pouring Paint, Solvents, or Chemicals Down Drains

Disposing of paint, cleaners, or automotive fluids down the drain is both illegal in many places and highly damaging to your plumbing. These chemicals can corrode pipes, kill helpful bacteria in septic systems, and contaminate local water supplies.

The American Water Works Association urges homeowners to use proper hazardous waste disposal sites for these materials. If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t send it down your drain.

DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge

Trying to fix plumbing problems without the right tools or experience can often make things worse. A loose fitting or over-tightened joint can lead to leaks or even burst pipes.

According to a 2024 survey by HomeAdvisor, nearly 35% of homeowners who attempted DIY plumbing repairs ended up calling a professional to fix their mistakes—often at a higher cost than if they had called for help in the first place. When in doubt, it’s safer to consult a licensed plumber.