Can You Safely Pour Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

Many households rinse mugs or cafetières straight into the sink, but disposing of coffee grounds is not recommended. While it may seem harmless, coffee grounds are one of the most common causes of drain blockages.

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Coffee Grounds Do Not Dissolve in Water

Unlike liquids such as tea or milk, coffee grounds do not dissolve in water. Instead, they stick to the inside of pipes. Over time, this build-up can reduce water flow and cause a blockage. When combined with grease or soap residue, the problem becomes even worse, leading to costly call-outs for drain clearance. Coffee drinkers have been warned that pouring grounds down the sink can trigger numerous problems long-term.

They Can Accumulate in Sewers

Coffee grounds that make it past household pipes can also add to issues in the sewage system. They can accumulate in sewers, contributing to fatbergs and flow restrictions. Water companies spend millions of pounds each year clearing these blockages. A plumber normally recommends a CCTV drain survey Northampton to pinpoint the cause of issues, and they are carried out by professionals such as wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/northampton/.

Use Your Food Waste Caddy

The safest way to dispose of coffee grounds is to put them in your food waste caddy if your council provides one or add them to a compost bin. If those options aren’t available, simply put your grounds into your rubbish bin.