Hand Soap That Won’t Clog Drains

Most people don’t think twice about the type of hand soap they use until their drains start running slow. While hand soap seems harmless, some kinds can contribute to buildup and clogs over time.

Why Some Hand Soaps Can Clog Drains

Certain soaps, especially bar soaps and heavy, creamy hand washes, can leave behind residue that sticks to pipes. Over time, this residue can mix with hair, dirt, and hard water minerals, creating stubborn clogs. Common culprits include:

• Bar soaps made with animal fats (tallow)

• Thick moisturizing hand creams

• Soaps with exfoliating beads or grit

Best Hand Soap Options for Healthy Drains

If you want to keep your plumbing happy, try these:

1. Liquid hand soap: Flows easily through pipes and rinses away without residue.

2. Foaming hand soap: Light and water-based, making it less likely to stick to pipes.

3. Glycerin-based soap: Gentle on both hands and drains.

4. Castile soap: Plant-based and biodegradable, great for both the environment and your plumbing.

Tips to Prevent Clogs from Soap Residue

• Rinse with hot water regularly to melt away soap scum before it hardens.

• Use less soap, a little goes a long way.

• Install a drain strainer to catch hair and debris that mix with soap.

• Clean your drains monthly with a safe enzyme cleaner.

What to Do If Soap Has Already Clogged Your Drain

If you notice slow drainage or gurgling sounds:

• Try a safe enzyme drain cleaner to break down residue.

• Flush with hot water.

• Call a professional plumber if the clog persists, they can remove the buildup without damaging pipes.

Choosing the right soap and practicing simple maintenance can help you avoid unnecessary plumbing calls and keep your drains flowing smoothly for years to come.

Call Vertical Plumbing at (480) 577-8720