How a simple mistake with Baileys could ruin your Christmas festivities
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The holiday season is upon us, and for many, that means indulging in festive treats and traditional tipples.
One such beloved beverage is Baileys Irish Cream, a rich and creamy liqueur often enjoyed over ice, in coffee, or even in holiday desserts.
However, there's a hidden danger associated with this festive favourite that could potentially wreak havoc on your Christmas celebrations.
Plumbers in the United Kingdom have issued a stern warning to those who enjoy Baileys, cautioning against a common mistake that could lead to expensive plumbing issues.
The problem arises when people dispose of leftover Baileys by pouring them down the sink.
While this might seem harmless to get rid of an old bottle before opening a fresh one, it could lead to serious blockages in your pipes.
Baileys, like other cream liqueurs, has a relatively short shelf life. It's recommended that you consume the bottle within six months of opening it.
After this period, the liqueur can start to lose its flavour and texture, leading many to dispose of any remaining contents. However, pouring it down the sink could be a costly mistake.
One tradesman explained: 'Cream liqueur drinks, such as the popular Christmas favourite, Baileys, can be a problem for your plumbing at Christmas.
‘While it may be delicious to drink, it doesn't keep for long and often ends up down the sink.’
However, this sort of beverage should never be disposed of in this way. Cream liqueurs have a large fat content and, as such, fall into the category of FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases).’
‘FOG should never go down the sink, as it sticks to pipes and can cause blockages.’
When the fat cools, it hardens and creates a blockage.
But it's not just Baileys that can cause problems.
The tradesmen also warned against disposing of turkey fat down the sink. Like Baileys, turkey fat is another FOG that can harden and create blockages when it cools.
Instead, it's recommended to dispose of these types of fats in the bin.
So, how can you enjoy your Baileys this Christmas without risking a plumbing disaster? Here are a few tips:
But if you ever encounter a clogged sink, you may need to do some extensive cleaning for it—and that includes those underneath it.
In a previous story, a mum revealed a discovery hiding beneath the kitchen sink plug. She also demonstrated how to clean the grime underneath with a few ingredients you can find in your pantry. Learn more about it here.
Remember, a little awareness and precaution can go a long way in preventing a holiday disaster. Enjoy your Baileys responsibly this Christmas, and here's to a season of joy, peace, and clear pipes!
What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever experienced a plumbing issue due to improper disposal of food and beverages? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
One such beloved beverage is Baileys Irish Cream, a rich and creamy liqueur often enjoyed over ice, in coffee, or even in holiday desserts.
However, there's a hidden danger associated with this festive favourite that could potentially wreak havoc on your Christmas celebrations.
Plumbers in the United Kingdom have issued a stern warning to those who enjoy Baileys, cautioning against a common mistake that could lead to expensive plumbing issues.
The problem arises when people dispose of leftover Baileys by pouring them down the sink.
Pouring Baileys down the sink can do more harm than good. Credit: Pexels
While this might seem harmless to get rid of an old bottle before opening a fresh one, it could lead to serious blockages in your pipes.
Baileys, like other cream liqueurs, has a relatively short shelf life. It's recommended that you consume the bottle within six months of opening it.
After this period, the liqueur can start to lose its flavour and texture, leading many to dispose of any remaining contents. However, pouring it down the sink could be a costly mistake.
One tradesman explained: 'Cream liqueur drinks, such as the popular Christmas favourite, Baileys, can be a problem for your plumbing at Christmas.
‘While it may be delicious to drink, it doesn't keep for long and often ends up down the sink.’
However, this sort of beverage should never be disposed of in this way. Cream liqueurs have a large fat content and, as such, fall into the category of FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases).’
‘FOG should never go down the sink, as it sticks to pipes and can cause blockages.’
When the fat cools, it hardens and creates a blockage.
But it's not just Baileys that can cause problems.
The tradesmen also warned against disposing of turkey fat down the sink. Like Baileys, turkey fat is another FOG that can harden and create blockages when it cools.
Instead, it's recommended to dispose of these types of fats in the bin.
So, how can you enjoy your Baileys this Christmas without risking a plumbing disaster? Here are a few tips:
- Consume Baileys within six months of opening the bottle to enjoy it at its best.
- If you have leftover Baileys past its prime, don't pour it down the sink. Instead, consider using it in cooking or baking. There are plenty of recipes online that call for Baileys, from decadent desserts to savoury sauces.
- If you must dispose of Baileys, do so in the bin. Pour it into a sealable bag or container to prevent leaks and odours.
- Be mindful of other FOGs in your kitchen, especially during the holiday season. Dispose of fats, oils, and greases properly to keep your pipes clear and your Christmas merry.
But if you ever encounter a clogged sink, you may need to do some extensive cleaning for it—and that includes those underneath it.
In a previous story, a mum revealed a discovery hiding beneath the kitchen sink plug. She also demonstrated how to clean the grime underneath with a few ingredients you can find in your pantry. Learn more about it here.
Remember, a little awareness and precaution can go a long way in preventing a holiday disaster. Enjoy your Baileys responsibly this Christmas, and here's to a season of joy, peace, and clear pipes!
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