Tools and materials
Practically the only tools you need are your hands. A screwdriver to open the mouth of the siphon and teflon tape and washers if you need to replace any during the cleaning process.

Prevention
- By periodically cleaning joints and siphons you can prevent unwelcome blockages.
- We frequently throw unsuitable materials down the toilet and although biodegradable action prevents blockages at the time, hair, paper, earth and leftover food will sooner or later cause a blockage or breakdown of the system.
Toilet sinks and kitchen sinks
- Unscrew all the elements that make up the drainage systems, which are usually similar and often made of plastic.
- The curved part in which the siphon prevents bad smells from rising can be cleaned without taking apart the whole system since it often incorporates a screw in top that the can be easily removed.
- Once you have unscrewed the pipes, couplings and siphons wash them with cloths, small brushes (old toothbrushes will do) and sprayed water. Try not to wash the tools just where you have unscrewed the drainage system.
- Although you don't need to take them apart, it is also worth cleaning the mouths of the sinks. If you want, you can unscrew them to check the joints and washers. If they are in bad condition replace them. The teflon tape will help to prevent disadjustment in the screwing mechanism.

The drain trap
- This part of the mechanism is vital to ensure the entire drainage system remains in good working order (including sinks, bath, toilet, shower, washing machine, dishwasher).
- It is usually located near to the building's general mains and is connected to the pipes leading to the various toilets and other apparatus.
- The fact that it is made of rigid plastic means that it does not retain waste, but if it the material is particularly heavy -sand for example- it ends up accumulating in the drain trap and must be cleaned.
- Hair and other waste ends up forming small balls which clog up the drain and prevent the siphon from working properly.
- Remove the siphon covering with a screwdriver. Turn the nut on the top and remove it. You can now clean using your hands or any other tool.
- Allow the water of toilets to flush several times to check that there are no impurities and that it flows freely.
- If you think some pipes are blocked, try unblocking them with wire.