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Blocked drains are one of the most common – and unpleasant – household issues. Whether it's a slow-draining sink, a backed-up toilet, or a fully blocked drain outside, it can be messy, inconvenient, and sometimes costly. But the good news is, many of these problems are avoidable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to unblock your drain, what causes blockages, and how to prevent them in the future – especially if you're living in Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, Poulton-le-Fylde, Cleveleys, Fleetwood, or the surrounding areas because those are the areas we cover!!
What Causes Blocked Drains?
Understanding what causes a blocked drain is the first step to preventing one. The biggest culprits include:
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Wet wipes and baby wipes
These don’t break down in water and easily get stuck in pipes, especially when combined with fats or grease. Even wipes labelled "flushable" can cause serious problems. -
Sanitary products and nappies
These expand in water and can completely block the pipe. Never flush them. -
Fat, oil, and grease
Pouring fat down the sink is a major mistake. As it cools, it hardens and sticks to the inside of pipes, forming a blockage. Even running hot water afterwards won’t solve it. -
Hair
Especially in bathroom sinks and showers, long hair can collect in the drain and form clumps. Human hair is surprisingly strong and can quickly cause a clog if not caught early. -
Excess toilet paper
In normal amounts, toilet tissue is fine. But flushing large wads at once can create a blockage, particularly in older plumbing systems.
To keep your drains, toilets, and sinks flowing smoothly, avoid flushing or rinsing these items down the drain.
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How to Unblock Your Drain
If you're dealing with a blocked or slow-draining sink, toilet or outside drain, here are a few things you can try:
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💧 Use a Drain Unblocker Liquid
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Available at stores like Wilko, ASDA, Screwfix, B&Q, and online retailers such as Amazon.
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Popular brands include HG, Mr Muscle, One Shot, and Buster.
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Always follow the instructions carefully.
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These products usually contain caustic soda and can help dissolve minor blockages if left overnight.
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Be aware: they’re not always effective and may damage the finish of sinks or taps over time.
🧪 Try Natural Methods (With Caution)
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Baking soda and vinegar is a popular DIY method.
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May help with odours or very light clogs.
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Not effective for serious or deep blockages.
🪠Use a Plunger or Drain Snake
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A plunger can often dislodge minor blockages in sinks or toilets.
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A drain snake (also called an auger) can reach deeper into pipes and pull out built-up debris.
🧰 Call a Drainage Expert
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If the blockage persists or keeps returning, it’s best to bring in a professional.
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FY-Fylde Drains covers Blackpool, Lytham, Cleveleys, Fleetwood, and surrounding areas.
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Fast, affordable service with expert results.
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01253 987172 <Click to Call
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Professional Drain Unblocking: Rodding, Jetting & CCTV Surveys
The most reliable and long-lasting way to unblock a drain is through:
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Drain Rodding – Using a strong, flexible rod to manually dislodge the blockage.
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Drain Jetting – High-pressure water is used to blast through stubborn clogs.
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CCTV Drain Surveys – A small camera is inserted into the drain to identify hidden issues like tree roots, collapsed pipes, or recurring blockages.
If you're in the Blackpool area and struggling with a blocked drain, FY-Fylde Drains can quickly identify and solve the problem – often for less than you'd expect.
How to Prevent Your Drain from Blocking
Here’s how you can prevent future problems:
✅ Never pour fat, oil, or grease down the sink
✅ Use a hair catcher or sink strainer
✅ Only flush toilet paper – no wipes, nappies, or sanitary products
✅ Rinse your drains occasionally with hot water
✅ Get regular maintenance checks if you live in an older property or have had previous issues
Need Help Unblocking Your Drain in Blackpool?
If your drain is blocked and you're in Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, Poulton-le-Fylde, Cleveleys, or the surrounding area, contact FY-Fylde Drains today. We offer fast, friendly, and affordable drain unblocking with no hidden fees.