Harmful Bathroom Habits You Should Break, Really
Have you given much thought to your bathroom habits? If not, now’s the time because your habits could actually be doing harm to your health, as well as your pipes and fixtures. We’ve put together a list of what we believe to be the top offenders, having the potential to cause the most extensive damage to your home.
5. Toilets Are Not Trash Cans
We know how easy it is to think of your toilet as invincible, but in reality, it’s not as strong as you think. Your pipes are not equipped to handle much else other than toilet paper.
Here’s a list of items that are most frequently flushed down the toilet that does not belong there:
- Facial tissues
- Wipes: baby, disinfectant, etc.
- Diapers
- Feminine hygiene products: sanitary napkins, tampons, etc.
- Toilet bowl scrub pads
- Napkins & paper towels
- Dental floss
- Hair
- Cat litter
There are numerous products that claim to be “flushable,” however, in no instance should you actually flush these products. There’s still a good chance you could clog your pipes. The safest practice is to simply throw all products – other than toilet paper – in the trash.
4. Steam Can Lead to Mold Development
Few things feel better than a hot shower after a long day at work. However, the steam buildup can actually lead to mold development in the smallest cracks and corners of your bathroom. If gone untreated, this could pose a risk to your health, causing respiratory problems, headaches, and other illnesses. You can help prevent mold by running the exhaust fan after showers, or if there is a window, you can crack it.
3. Drains Can’t Handle Your Hair
Is your shower not draining as well lately? It could be because of a hair buildup in your drain. Consider using a drain stopper to catch your hair so that it doesn’t drain into your pipes. When you add hair into the mix of already present dirt and soap scum, it doesn’t make for a pretty picture.
2. Liquid Drain Cleaners Do More Harm Than Good
Liquid drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that actually destroy your pipes, not to mention, that they’re harmful to the environment. The best way to get rid of a clog is to snake it. For best results, give a licensed professional plumber a call right away, especially if you’ve never snaked a drain before and feel hesitant.
1. Your Shower Curtain is A Mold Breeding Ground
Every day, your shower curtain is exposed to dirt, soap, and water, which mold loves. Look at the bottom of your curtain to see if there is discoloration. If you do see discoloration, don’t let this slide! It could mean your curtain has mold. If you do see signs of mold, throw your curtain in the washing machine to prevent it from spreading.
We all have our fair share of habits that need to be broken, especially when it comes to bathroom practices. If you do come across a plumbing issue, it’s important to address the problem in a timely manner, before it becomes serious.