Bar soap has been a staple in bathrooms for generations. It’s an excellent choice for keeping the hands clean and the bodies fresh. However, there’s a little-known downside to using bar soap, and that’s the potential for drain clogs. And naturally, most people are curious to know – does bar soap clog drains? This article tells you why bar soap can indeed lead to drain problems, what you need to know about preventing clogs, and how plumbers can come to the rescue when things go awry.
Why Bar Soap Can Cause Drain Clogs
The Culprit: Soap Scum
When you use bar soap in the shower or sink, it creates something called “soap scum.” Soap scum is made up of soap leftovers, minerals from the water, and dead skin cells. As time goes by, this sticky and greasy mix can collect in your pipes, making the water drain slowly and eventually causing blockages.
The Science Behind It
Soap consists of fatty acids and alkali. When you use soap, it combines with minerals in water to form soap scum. This scum adheres to the interior walls of your plumbing pipes. As more soap scum accumulates, it narrows the diameter of the pipes, making it more difficult for water to flow through. This reduction in water flow can result in slow-draining sinks and showers and, ultimately, blockages.
Signs of Bar Soap-Related Drain Clogs
Slow-Draining Fixtures
One of the first signs that you may have a drain clog related to bar soap is a slow-draining sink or shower. When you notice that the water isn’t going down as quickly as it used to, it’s time to investigate.
Unpleasant Odors
Soap scum can trap bacteria and organic matter, leading to foul odors emanating from your drains. If your bathroom starts smelling less than fresh, it could be a sign of soap-related clogs.
Frequent Clogs
If you often have clogged drains, especially in the bathroom, and you’re a regular user of bar soap, soap scum is likely the culprit.
Preventing Bar Soap-Related Drain Clogs
Switch to Liquid Soap
One of the simplest ways to prevent bar soap-related clogs is to switch to liquid soap. Liquid soap doesn’t leave behind the same soap scum residue that bar soap does. It’s a more water-friendly option for your plumbing.
Use Soap Dishes and Trays
If you prefer using bar soap, consider using a soap dish or tray with proper drainage. These accessories can help prevent soap scum from accumulating in your plumbing by allowing the soap to dry out between uses.
When to Call a Plumber
Despite your best efforts, you may still encounter stubborn bar soap-related clogs. In such cases, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. Here’s how they can assist:
Drain Cleaning
Plumbers have specialized tools and equipment for drain cleaning. They use hydro jetting, drain snakes, or other methods to effectively clear soap scum and other blockages from your plumbing system, while also inspecting the pipe work to ensure there’s no underlying damage or buildup contributing to the issue.
Pipe Inspection
In some cases, soap scum buildup can lead to more severe issues, like damaged or corroded pipes. Plumbers can perform a pipe inspection using cameras to identify any damage or structural problems. If needed, they can recommend and carry out pipe repairs or replacements.
Preventative Advice
Plumbers can provide valuable advice on preventing future soap scum-related clogs. They may suggest changes in your plumbing fixtures or provide maintenance tips to keep your drains trouble-free.
In answer to the question – does bar soap clog drains? Yes, it absolutely does. However, if you do encounter stubborn clogs, don’t worry and call a professional plumber. They have the expertise and tools needed to keep your drains flowing smoothly, ensuring your bar soap can be enjoyed without any unwanted surprises in your plumbing system.