Homeowners are being urged to stop pouring leftover sauces, oils, and grease down the kitchen sink to prevent blockages, according to water company Severn Trent. These substances, along with coffee grounds and food scraps, are common causes of costly pipe problems.
Guidance from Severn Trent
Severn Trent's website explains that fats, oils, and grease can cause big problems if disposed of down the drain. The company advises: "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."
Bathroom Drain Warnings
Severn Trent also warns about bathroom drains, stating: "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."
Wet Wipes Ban and Pollution
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, with bans taking effect in Wales on December 18, 2026, Northern Ireland on May 18, 2027, England on May 19, 2027, and Scotland on August 11, 2027. Gov.uk notes: "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."
Public Support and Cost of Blockages
The ban follows overwhelming public support, with 95% of consultation respondents agreeing. UK Water Industry Research found that wet wipes contribute to 94% of sewer blockages, costing water companies around £200 million annually to fix, a cost ultimately passed to households via water bills. The public is urged to bin all wet wipes, even those labelled flushable, to reduce blockages and protect nature.
