As the UK braces for record temperatures this week, with the Met Office forecasting highs of 38C and issuing heat health warnings until at least Thursday, experts are urging households not to pour melted ice cream down the sink or drain. Rentokil Specialist Hygiene warns that unwanted fats, oils, and grease — including melted ice cream — should never be disposed of via kitchen sinks.
Why melted ice cream is a drain hazard
According to Rentokil's cleaning experts, pouring melted ice cream down the sink risks costly drain blockages and sewer disruption. The warning extends to barbecue grease, marinades, and salad dressings, as many summer staples contain high levels of fat that may appear harmless in liquid form but can rapidly cool and solidify inside pipework. Dairy-based products, combined with sugary residues, can also encourage bacterial growth and unpleasant odours deep within drainage systems. Over time, this build-up can form hardened blockages, commonly known as fatbergs — restricting wastewater flow and, in serious cases, causing sewer backups, burst pipes, flooding and expensive repair bills.
Public awareness and research findings
Research commissioned by Initial Washroom Hygiene found that 1 in 10 UK adults believe it is acceptable to pour fats or oils straight down the sink. This suggests the problem may be more widespread than many realise. Jamie Woodhall, UK Technical and Innovations Manager at Rentokil Specialist Hygiene, commented: "We're a nation that knows how to make the most of the sunshine, but warmer weather can bring some less helpful habits, particularly when it comes to disposing of cooking fats and food residues. The good news is that small changes make a real difference. Letting fats cool and solidify before scraping them into the bin, wiping greasy pans before washing them up, and using a sink strainer are all simple steps that can save households from potentially serious and expensive drainage problems."
Simple steps to prevent blockages
To avoid drain issues during the heatwave, Rentokil recommends allowing fats to cool and solidify before scraping them into the bin, wiping greasy pans with a paper towel before washing, and using a sink strainer to catch food residues. These small changes can prevent the formation of fatbergs and protect household plumbing.
