I’ve tried a bunch of those mesh catchers over the years, and I get what you mean about the finer mesh needing more frequent cleaning. In my experience, tenants either love them or forget about them entirely. Have you noticed if food scraps still sneak past when you’re rinsing plates, or does the finer mesh really catch everything? I’m always debating if it’s worth swapping out the standard ones in all my units or just sticking with the basics.
Honestly, I’ve seen plenty of stuff still slip through even with the finer mesh. Tenants either don’t empty them or just push food down anyway. Sometimes the basics are less hassle—less cleaning, less clogging from buildup in the mesh itself. I’d stick with what’s easiest for folks to actually use.
I get what you mean about the mesh getting gross—mine clogs up with coffee grounds and rice almost every time. I tried the finer ones, but honestly, it just meant I had to clean them more often, and it started smelling if I forgot even for a day. I’m leaning toward just scraping plates really well before rinsing, but I wonder if that’s enough long-term. Has anyone tried those enzyme drain cleaners as a preventative thing? Curious if they actually keep stuff from building up or if it’s just another gimmick.
I’m leaning toward just scraping plates really well before rinsing, but I wonder if that’s enough long-term.
Honestly, I used to think scraping was enough too. It definitely helps, but in my experience it only slows down the inevitable gunk buildup. I went through a phase where I was obsessed with keeping every crumb out of the sink—scraped, wiped, even gave plates a quick paper towel swipe sometimes. Still, after a month or two, the drain would start running slow again.
As for enzyme cleaners, I tried one of those “monthly maintenance” types last year. It made things smell fresher for a while, but didn’t really stop the occasional backup. Maybe it’s better as a supplement than a solution? The cost adds up over time too, which bugs me.
Honestly, what’s worked best for me is just boiling water down the drain every week or so. Doesn’t cost much and seems to keep things moving. Not sure if it’s the most high-tech option, but at least it’s cheap and doesn’t leave weird smells behind.
Honestly, what’s worked best for me is just boiling water down the drain every week or so. Doesn’t cost much and seems to keep things moving.
I’ve seen boiling water help, but I’m curious—have you ever tried a mix of baking soda and vinegar before the hot water? I’ve had mixed results with that combo. Also, do you ever pull out the trap to check for buildup, or just stick to preventative stuff?