For millions, it was an event that would be seared into their memories for the rest of their lives – on par with the Kennedy assassination and 9/11.

The Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake, begins on January 29. Also called Spring Festival, this annual celebration is observed by many Asian cultures. Whether you’re cleaning your kitchen after a big meal or finishing a painting project, it can be tempting to pour just about anything liquid—or sometimes even solids—down the drain.