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Teach Plumbing Etiquette
One of the first things you can do to ensure your kids don't cause a plumbing issue is to teach them how to use the system properly. You're their main example of what to flush down the toilet and put down the drains. Teach your kids the following tips, and make sure you stick to them as well:
- Don't flush diapers, wipes, feminine products, floss, or tissues down the toilet.
- Don't put pasta, vegetable peels, or coffee grounds in your garbage disposal.
- Use plumbing features for their designed purpose.
- Don't overfill bathtubs and sinks.
You can also inspire good habits in your children so they learn to respect their home and the plumbing in it. Explain to them the problems they could cause by not following those rules, which could help them avoid causing any accidents.
Latch Toilet Lids
Want to avoid clogged toilets and missing belongings? Add a latch to your toilets and secure it after every use. By fastening the lid regularly, there are fewer chances for your kids to flush a goldfish, toy, or watch down the drain.
Lock Handles
You might not think to lock any faucet handles with childproofing equipment, but this tip can help prevent several plumbing blunders. These locks will keep your faucet handles stuck in an off position. As a result, your kids can't run water excessively and cause any leaks.
Cover Your Garbage Disposal Switch
You can't cover the garbage disposal in your sink without losing some of the feature's functionality. However, your garbage disposal can get clogged or damaged easily.
Cover the disposal switch instead to protect this part of your plumbing system. You can place a countertop appliance in front of the switch or replace the plate with a lock-and-key cover.
Invest in Drain and Faucet Covers
Never underestimate the value of basic childproofing tools. Simple devices like drain plugs and faucet covers can go a long way to prevent a plumbing disaster.
Drain covers catch hair, fibers, food, and other debris that find their way toward the drains and could stop up your pipes. And faucet and handle covers keep these features out of your children's sight, so they'll be less likely to play with them and cause accidental flooding.
Clean Up Mud Outside
When your kids play outside and come in muddy, your first thought may be to take them to the bathroom and clean them off. However, any mud and sediment that flows down your drains could cause a serious clog to build within your pipes.
You still need to clean off your children so they don't track dirt and debris inside your house, so hose them off outside instead. The mud stays outside and your pipes stay clear of excess debris.
With the above tips, you can keep your plumbing in top shape while still letting your little ones roam and explore at home. Should you ever experience a plumbing problem, contact Dignity Plumbing. Our experts can help you get your plumbing system back in working order in no time.