Who doesn’t love a good bath? For most of us, it’s the ultimate stress relief after a busy day at the office or managing the kids. An explosion of colours, soothing floral scents, and the calming warm water, we feel relaxed just thinking about it. But, have you ever wondered what effect your bathing rituals might have on your plumbing? According to our Wellington Plumbers at Plumbspec, bath bombs, salts and oils can cause concerns if you are not careful. So, how do you protect your plumbing but enjoy a slice of heaven on a weeknight? Here’s how: 

 

How do bath bombs harm plumbing? 

Most bath bombs contain ingredients that when combined never fully dissolve in bathwater. Typically bath bombs are made up of salts and oils. When it comes to your kitchen, most of us know that pouring oil down the sink is a big no, no. Much like your kitchen, oils should never go down your sink. As the salts and oils from bath bombs don’t completely dissolve, the residue is collected in your plumbing. This residue then cools and solidifies causing your drains to clog over time.

But, here’s the bad news: Those much loved pretty pink petals, glitter freckles, and confetti bath bombs cause even more trouble for your plumbing system. Our Wellington Plumbers strongly recommend that you stay away from bath bomb’s that include: 

  • Cornstarch 
  • Essential oils 
  • Potpourri 
  • Cocoa butter 
  • Glitter 

These ingredients do not dissolve well in water and even have the potential to harden in the curves and elbows of your pipes when dried. 

 

How to avoid clogging your drains when using bath bombs

The good news: While bath bombs can cause clogs over time, you do not have to forgo using them. Instead, there are some simple steps you can follow to ensure your pipes are free from debris. 

  • Vinegar & baking soda: Once you’ve had your bath, pour some vinegar down the drain and leave it for 5 minutes. Flushing it away using some hot water will help to prevent bigger blockages from occurring. We recommend 1 to 2 cups of vinegar per bath. 

 

  • Use a drain strainer: If you really enjoy the floral experience of floating flowers or even glitter, Plumbspec Plumbers recommend that you take a few extra steps. Before draining your bath, place a drain strainer to catch the solids. This will help to prevent solid particulars from going down the drain. 

 

  • Bath bomb pouch: For better protection, place your bath bomb into a nylon sock. Tie off the sock before placing it into the water and watch the good ingredient disperse while the clog-forming ingredients are contained. 

 

  • If all else fails, call in the professionals – The Wellington Plumbers at Plumbspec. 

If you’ve done all the right things but notice your tub is draining slowly or not at all, it’s time to call in the professional. Our Wellington Plumbers can get your plumbing system unclogged and moving smoothly in no time. Call us on 0800 232 650 for help with all your plumbing needs.