Drain clogs are the most common problem we get calls about. And it's understandable how frustrating they can be, which is why people repeatedly ask us how they can prevent them. Before determining how to prevent drain clogs, let's look at the most common causes. Hair In the bathroom, hair is the primary cause of clogs in the tub and shower. Soap Soap residue coats the interior walls of the pipes and builds up, leading to clogs. Grease. In the kitchen, grease, and fat are the most common cause of clogs. Like soap, grease congeals along the pipe's interior and builds up like cholesterol in an artery over time. Non-flushable Items. Most toilet clogs happen because people flush things that should go into the trash, like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, cotton balls, etc. Since most clogs are preventable, the key is to be mindful of what goes down the drain. In the kitchen, pour grease and cooking fats into the trash or a jar to dispose of later. Also, if you don't have a garbage disposal, use a mesh drain cover to stop food scraps from getting in. In the bathroom, also use a mesh drain cover in the tub or shower to prevent hair from going down the drain. And only flush human waste and appropriate toilet paper — everything else goes into the trash. Soap buildup is a bit trickier. We recommend using liquid soap over bar soap because it's less likely to create a problem. Also, use soap in moderation. Finally, consider using an enzyme-based drain cleaner to break down the organic matter and prevent it from building up. Enzyme cleaners aren't dangerous like chemical drain cleaners and won't harm your pipes. If you're worried about clogs, it's worth calling a plumber every few months for professional drain cleaning to save you the aggravation of dealing with a backup.