Clogged drains are among the most frustrating plumbing issues Midland homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a toilet that won’t flush properly, drain clogs can disrupt your entire household. But what exactly is causing the blockage? You may be surprised to learn that many common culprits are lurking in plain sight—and some could even be habits you didn’t realize were harmful.
In this post, we’ll uncover the most frequent (and surprising) causes of clogged drains in Midland homes, how to prevent them, and when to call the pros.
🚿 1. Hair Buildup in Bathroom Drains
Hair is the #1 culprit in shower and bathroom sink clogs. As hair goes down the drain, it tangles with soap scum and forms stubborn clumps that slow or stop water flow. Over time, this buildup can lead to full blockages in your pipes.
Prevention Tip:
Install a drain screen or hair catcher over your shower and sink drains. Clean them regularly to prevent buildup.
🧽 2. Soap Scum and Grease: A Sticky Situation
Soap seems harmless, but bar soaps often contain fats and oils that bind with minerals in water to form soap scum. This residue clings to pipe walls, trapping other debris. The same goes for kitchen grease and oil, which solidify as they cool.
According to Consumer Reports, fats and grease are one of the top contributors to stubborn clogs.
Prevention Tip:
Switch to liquid soap when possible, and never pour grease down the kitchen sink. Instead, pour used grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
🧻 3. “Flushable” Wipes Are Not So Flushable
Despite the label, flushable wipes are a leading cause of toilet and sewer line blockages. They don’t break down the same way as toilet paper and can catch on tree roots or pipe bends.
Prevention Tip:
Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Everything else—wipes, paper towels, hygiene products—should go in the trash.
🌳 4. Tree Roots Infiltrating Sewer Lines
In Midland’s more established neighborhoods, tree roots are a common and sneaky issue. Roots grow toward moisture, and a small crack in your sewer pipe can become a highway for invading roots.
Signs You May Have Root Intrusion:
- Frequent toilet backups
- Gurgling sounds in your pipes
- Sewage smells in your yard or basement
Prevention Tip:
Schedule a professional sewer camera inspection if you suspect root intrusion. Einstein Pros Midland offers advanced sewer line diagnostics to catch these problems early.
🥣 5. Food Scraps and Coffee Grounds in the Sink
Even with a garbage disposal, certain food items are notorious for causing kitchen drain clogs. Eggshells, rice, pasta, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables like celery or potato peels tend to expand or get caught in your pipes.
Prevention Tip:
Scrape food into the trash or compost bin instead of the sink. If using a garbage disposal, run plenty of cold water while it’s operating and avoid problematic foods.
🏠 6. Aging or Improperly Installed Pipes
Older Midland homes may have outdated plumbing materials such as galvanized steel or cast iron, which corrode over time. Additionally, poorly installed pipes with incorrect pitch or layout can cause recurring clogs, no matter how careful you are.
Prevention Tip:
If you’re experiencing frequent drain problems in an older home, it may be time for a plumbing inspection. Einstein Pros Midland can evaluate your pipe layout and recommend cost-effective upgrades.
🧰 When to Call Einstein Pros Midland
Some drain clogs can be resolved with a plunger or enzyme-based cleaner—but not all. If you’re dealing with:
- Repeated clogs in the same drain
- Multiple slow drains in your home
- Foul odors from your drains
- Water backing up in tubs, toilets, or sinks
…it’s time to call in a licensed plumber.
Einstein Pros Midland offers professional drain cleaning services, hydro jetting, and camera inspections to clear your pipes safely and efficiently—without the guesswork.
🔁 Related Reading from Our Blog
- The 2025 Plumbing Cost Guide for Midland Homeowners
- How to Prevent Sewer Backups in Midland Neighborhoods
- Water Pressure Problems in Midland Homes: What to Check First
🚨 Don’t Wait—Fix That Drain Before It Gets Worse
Drain clogs don’t just go away on their own. Left untreated, they can cause pipe damage, sewage backups, and even water damage to your home. Fortunately, Midland homeowners have a trusted local expert on hand—Einstein Pros.
Whether it’s a simple clog or a more complex sewer line issue, our team is ready to help. Call or schedule service online today.
📞 Need fast help? Contact Einstein Pros Midland for same-day service!