Top 7 Common Causes of Clogged Drains (And How to Fix Them)

A clogged drain can quickly bring your household to a halt. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a complete blockage in the shower, the frustration and inconvenience are all too real. Plumbing issues are often hidden behind walls or under floors, which makes regular drain problems even more of a headache. Understanding what causes a clogged drain and how to fix it can prevent costly damage and long-term plumbing issues.

Households with clogged drain problems in Arlington, VA often experience the same repeated drain troubles due to habits, pipe material, or age of the plumbing system. Knowing how to identify and address the root of the issue can save time, money, and unnecessary mess. Here are the top 7 most common causes of clogged drains and how to fix them before they turn into major plumbing emergencies.

1. Hair Build-Up

Hair is a leading cause of bathroom drain clogs. Over time, strands bind with soap residue and stick to pipe walls, creating a net that traps debris. This blockage gradually restricts water flow and causes slow drainage.

Fix: Install a hair catcher or drain guard to trap hair before it enters the drain. For minor clogs, remove visible hair with a gloved hand or use a plastic drain snake. In more stubborn cases, a wet/dry vacuum or enzyme-based drain cleaner may help.

2. Grease and Oil

Grease, fats, and oils solidify as they cool, clinging to the inside of kitchen pipes. Over time, these sticky substances accumulate, narrowing the passageway and catching food particles and other debris.

Fix: Never pour grease or oil down the sink. Instead, collect it in a disposable container and discard it in the trash. If grease has already clogged your pipes, try flushing with hot water and dish soap or use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by boiling water.

3. Food Waste

Even with a garbage disposal, food scraps can cause clogs, especially fibrous items like celery, potato peels, or coffee grounds. These items don’t break down easily and can block pipes over time.

Fix: Scrape food waste into the trash or compost bin. If disposal clogs occur, reset the unit and try grinding ice cubes and a bit of dish soap. Avoid putting problematic food items in the disposal.

4. Soap Scum

Traditional bar soaps contain fats that combine with minerals in water, forming a hard residue known as soap scum. This builds up inside pipes, narrowing them and catching other debris.

Fix: Switch to liquid soap or low-residue soap alternatives. To remove existing scum buildup, flush drains with vinegar and hot water. For heavy buildup, a plumber may need to pressure-clean the pipe.

5. Mineral Buildup

In areas with hard water, minerals such as calcium and magnesium can settle in pipes, forming solid masses that reduce water flow and contribute to clogs.

Fix: Install a water softener to prevent future buildup. For current blockages, professional descaling with special equipment may be required. Regular maintenance can help prevent recurring issues.

6. Flushed Non-Flushables

Toilets aren’t made to handle anything beyond human waste and toilet paper. Flushing wipes (even if labeled “flushable”), cotton balls, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can quickly clog the sewer line.

Fix: Educate household members on proper toilet use. Keep a covered wastebasket in the bathroom to discourage flushing foreign items. If a clog forms, a flange plunger or toilet auger can sometimes resolve the issue, but deeper obstructions often need professional help.

7. Tree Root Invasion

Roots from trees and shrubs can invade underground pipes in search of water, especially older pipes made of clay or concrete. These roots can grow inside the pipes, causing severe blockages or even pipe collapse.

Fix: Regular sewer camera inspections can catch root intrusion early. For confirmed root problems, professional hydro-jetting or trenchless pipe repair may be needed. Avoid planting trees near sewer lines to prevent future issues.

Keep Water Flowing Smoothly

Clogged drains aren’t just a nuisance—they can signal deeper issues that compromise your home’s plumbing system. Whether the problem is minor or severe, taking action quickly reduces the risk of water damage, mold growth, or expensive repairs. Preventative care, mindful usage, and timely maintenance go a long way toward keeping drains flowing freely.

If you’re experiencing slow drains or stubborn clogs, it’s time to bring in professional support. Clogged drain repair in Arlington, VA is best handled by experienced technicians who understand the specific challenges of local plumbing systems. Trust the team at All Plumbing to fix the issue thoroughly and help you prevent future problems. Call today to schedule your service and get your drains back to normal—fast.