No one likes having the smell of blocked drains in their home. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to avoid these blockages if you don't know what causes them in the first place.

Read ahead to learn about the most common causes of stinky drains and how to prevent them!

Cut Tree Roots

Trees that are further out on your property may seem harmless, but as they age, their extending roots have the potential to rupture your water pipes. High-pressure water jets are used to clear blocked pipes and cut through roots, which means you may need to call a professional if you think one of your trees might cause you trouble. 

Don't Flush Toiletries

Flushing toiletries like makeup wipes, sanitary pads, and paper towels are common culprits of clogged pipes and drains. The last thing anyone wants in their bathroom is an overflowing toilet, so be sure to keep a bin nearby for your toiletries.

Educate Your Kids About Flushing 

Another common toilet clogger is kids' toys like little cars, action figures, and marbles. Kids may find them fun to flush, but the resulting blockage and overflow are most definitely not worth it. A family meeting about proper flushing will help you avoid this smelly outcome.

Dispose of Cooking Oil Properly 

Another way to prevent clogged drains in your kitchen is to pour cooking oil in the bin, rather than the sink. The reason? The moment oil starts to cool, it congeals into lumps that clog up your pipes.

Scrape Food Scraps into Compost

Drain blockages caused by food are among the stinkiest of all, so be sure to put your food waste in the bin and not in the sink. Not even a garbage disposal will protect you from the clogging caused over time by food waste like coffee grounds and pasta.

Invest in a Water Softener

Invest in a water softener to keep your drains from getting clogged by a mineral build-up. The softener will filter out the minerals that come together to form masses, which will clog up your pipes.

Try Natural Soaps

Using natural soaps is a good way to prevent soap scum and blocked drains. That's because most soaps use fat and grease, which build up in your pipes over time.  

Install a Drain Catcher

Install a drain catcher to stop hair from going down your shower drain. Drain catchers are very affordable, easy to use, and a great way of avoiding both blockages and a stinky overflow in your bathroom. 

Keep Your Gutters Clean

Storms and other harsh weather conditions tend to leave behind a build-up of natural debris like leaves and soil, which clog up your pipes over time if left unchecked. You can prevent this blockage and the odour that comes with it by cleaning your gutters regularly.

Careful With Cat Litter!

Used cat litter already smells pretty bad. The last thing you need is it causing a blockage and an even worse-smelling overflow. Cat litter turns into clumps when it's wet, so pour it in the bin and not into the sink.  

Drains Already Stink? Call a Professional

Are these tips coming too late? If you're already suffering through some unfortunate clogged drain odours, it's time to call a professional. An insured plumber that's licenced for drainage work can help get your drains back in working order and your house smelling clean and fresh again.