Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, food! With the kitchen bustling and extra guests in the house, it's no surprise that Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times of year for plumbers. The last thing anyone wants during a holiday gathering is a clogged sink or a backed-up garbage disposal. To help you keep your kitchen running smoothly this Thanksgiving, here are some tips from Frank's Mr. Plumber on how to avoid clogs and keep the plumbing flowing.

1. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Sink

Not everything belongs in the sink—especially during Thanksgiving prep! Avoid dumping food scraps down the drain, especially items like:

• Grease and fat: These are the biggest culprits behind kitchen clogs. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool, then scrape it into the trash.
• Potato peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds: These can easily clog your drain. Instead, compost or dispose of them in the trash.
• Stringy foods like celery or onion skins: These can wrap around the blades of your garbage disposal, causing damage and clogging the pipes.

2. Use the Garbage Disposal Correctly

Your garbage disposal is not invincible! Keep it in good shape by following these tips:

• Run cold water: Always run cold water when using the disposal. Cold water helps solidify any leftover fats or oils, allowing them to be chopped up and flushed through the system.
• Small amounts at a time: Don’t overwhelm your garbage disposal by trying to grind too much food at once. Add food scraps gradually to prevent a clog.

3. Prevent Overloads in the Bathroom

If you’re hosting guests, bathroom plumbing can see extra strain too. Make sure to:

• Stock up on toilet paper: Keep an ample supply handy, but remind guests that only toilet paper should be flushed—no wipes, tissues, or other items.
• Invest in a small trash can: A visible trash can in each bathroom will discourage guests from flushing anything that doesn’t belong.
• Fix any slow drains now: If you notice slow drainage in sinks or showers, address the problem before your house is full. Slow drains can turn into a bigger issue with extra use during the holiday.

4.Keep Your Drains Clear and Happy

A little preventative care can go a long way. Here are a few more tips to keep your drains clear before the big feast:

• Use a drain strainer: A simple drain strainer can catch food scraps in the kitchen or hair in the bathroom, stopping clogs before they start.
• Avoid chemical cleaners: These can damage your pipes over time. Instead, opt for natural solutions like a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep your drains fresh.

5. Know When to Call a Plumber

If you do encounter a problem—don’t panic! Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a clog can happen. If you notice slow drains, strange smells, or a backed-up sink that just won’t clear, it’s best to call in a professional. Frank's Mr. Plumber is ready to help with any plumbing issues, big or small, to keep your Thanksgiving merry and bright.