When it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient plumbing system, it’s important to start educating everyone in the household — including the little ones. Kids may not understand the complexities of plumbing, but with the right guidance, they can play a part in keeping your home’s drains flowing freely.
Today, we’ll share some family-friendly best practices to help you avoid common plumbing mishaps caused by curious kids.
Teach Kids What Belongs in the Drain (and What Doesn’t)
One of the most common causes of clogged drains and toilets is children flushing or washing down objects that don’t belong. Toys, food scraps, and craft supplies are just a few examples of things that can create plumbing headaches.
Explain what can and cannot go down the drain or toilet to your children. An easy way to remember: If it’s not toilet paper or waste, it doesn’t belong. For sinks, remind kids to keep small items like hair ties, beads, and crayons far from the drain.
Avoid Turning Plumbing Into a Play Area
Plumbing fixtures can seem like fun gadgets to kids, but letting them treat faucets, drains, or toilets as toys can lead to costly damage. Water from a running faucet might seem harmless, but if kids repeatedly play with fixtures, it can wear out seals and valves, leading to leaks.
Keep plumbing tools like plungers and drain snakes out of sight and reach. These are not toys, and playing with them can lead to accidental damage or injury.
Set a Good Example With Everyday Habits
Kids often mimic the behaviors of adults, so modeling good drain etiquette is crucial. Show them how to clean up food scraps before rinsing dishes, use strainers in sinks and tubs, and avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. These simple lessons can instill lifelong habits that help protect your plumbing.
Be Proactive About Maintenance
Even with the best practices, drains can develop buildup over time. Scheduling regular professional drain cleaning in Atlanta ensures your plumbing stays in top shape and prevents small issues from becoming major problems. Service professionals can remove debris safely and efficiently, keeping your drains running smoothly.
What to Do in Case of a Problem
Kids are bound to make mistakes, and that’s okay. If you notice slow drainage or suspect something has been flushed that shouldn’t have been, act quickly. Professional plumbers can help resolve the issue and provide tips for preventing future mishaps.
Create a Plumbing-Safe Zone
Lastly, set clear boundaries. Explain that toilets, sinks, and drains are tools, not toys. Keep bathrooms and kitchens kid-friendly by using safety latches or covers for younger children who might not yet understand the rules.
Educating kids about the dos and don’ts of plumbing might take a little effort, but it’s well worth it to avoid costly repairs and ensure your system stays in great condition.
Contact HM Plumbing today for your residential plumbing needs. Serving with Integrity.