The festive season is over, and many Brits are stuck with the reminders of what a jolly time they had – including copious amounts of leftover Baileys. Many people love the creamy, boozy beverage, but it's usually not something that can be consumed in large amounts. It also doesn't last very long.
Inevitably, the alcoholic Irish cream will go off once it's opened, and it's recommended you drink it within six months. As Dry January is in full swing, you may be thinking of disposing of the liquid down the drain – but Southern Water has now issued a warning against it.
Alex Saunders, head of Southern Water's wastewater network, warns: "Something like Baileys, which has a cream content could add to problems. No one likes a nasty surprise over the festive season and a blocked drain is no different."
Kevin Began, Director Blockbuster Drainage explained to The Mirror that this is because "it will collate in the 'U' bend under the sink due to its thick consistency and prevent liquid from passing through to the external drainage".
It can also cause it to "set in the small bore pipework and cause blockages".
The same goes for "hot cooking fat, cream, sauces and oils".
This is important to be aware of, because Southern is also concerned about the number of people who may order a takeaway in the aftermath of the festive period, and then pour oily sauces down the drain.
Instead, Kevin says you should pour the cooled liquid into a "sealable container and dispose of it in your general waste bin".
Jamie Woodhall, UK Technical and Innovations Manager at Rentokil Specialist Hygiene told The Mirror: "You should only pour water based products down a sink, or those that are water soluble.
"Flushing unsuitable products down domestic or commercial drains can lead to expensive drain blockages and overflowing sinks as well as increasing the risk of contamination, since grease sludge can harbour pathogenic bacteria."
According to Southern, around 250 tonnes of fat enters the sewage system for every million turkeys that are cooked at Christmas.
Jamie added: "Top culprits for blocking drains in homes and commercial spaces are products that contain grease, fats and oil; expanding foods such as rice and pasta; flour; coffee grounds; and paint.
"With a severe blockage, some people turn to mechanical cleaning methods such as high pressure water jetting and rodding, but these are maybe unsuitable and even become a source of bacteria contamination if not operated with care. So you should always consult an expert to resolve a severe blockage in a safe manner."
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