People urged to stop pouring sauces down the sink

People urged to stop pouring sauces down the sink A water company has explained the risks to people who dispose of sauces down the sink drain Homeowners are advised not to pour leftover sauces down the kitchen sink to avoid blockages. People have been warned that fats, oils, and grease can cause serious problems if they go down the drain. To keep pipes clear, homeowners should collect any unused oils or sauces for the bin, according to a water company. Severn Trent's website explains that these food items are common culprits behind costly blockages. The experts said that fats, oils, and grease can "cause big problems." The water company added that items such as leftover food and coffee grounds can also cause problems. Thankfully, the experts shared detailed advice for homeowners. The guidance said: "Scrape pots, pans and plates before washing up or putting them in the dishwasher. Use kitchen roll to wipe grease from your pans, plates and air fryers. "Use a strainer in your kitchen sink to catch leftover food. Collect used oil, leftover sauce and coffee grounds and throw them in the bin." By following the steps, homeowners can help prevent blockages and keep everything running smoothly. Severn Trent also warned homeowners to be careful with their bathroom drains. The advice said: "Only ever flush the 3P's: pee, poo and (toilet) paper. Bag sanitary towels, tampons and colostomy bags then bin them. Bin wipes to avoid blocked drains, even the ones that are labelled "flushable". Use a bin for nappies, incontinence pads, razors, cotton buds and dental floss." According to Gov.uk, wet wipes containing plastic are a growing source of pollution. The UK is phasing out single-use wet wipes containing plastic. The ban on selling these wipes takes effect first in Wales on December 18, 2026. This will be followed by Northern Ireland on May 18, 2027, and England on May 19, 2027. Scotland will also enforce the ban, starting August 11, 2027. Gov.uk said: "Wet wipes containing plastic are a growing source of pollution, with a recent survey showing an average of 20 wet wipes littering every 100 metres of beach across the UK*. When flushed, they can break down into microplastics that poison wildlife and enter the food chain. "The ban follows overwhelming public support with 95% of respondents to the government consultation agreeing with the proposals. While the new law targets wipes containing plastic, all wet wipes contribute to blockages and pollution when flushed. "UK Water Industry Research found that wet wipes contribute to 94% of sewer blockages, which cost water companies around £200 million to fix each year – a cost that is ultimately passed onto households through their water bills. "The public can take action now by ensuring that any wet wipes, even if they are labelled as flushable, are put in the bin rather than flushed away, to reduce costly blockages and safeguard nature."