Clogged drains can be a nightmare, causing frustration and inconvenience in kitchens and bathrooms. However, before you reach for the phone to call an expensive plumber, there are several fast and easy ways you can try to unclog drains naturally. Most often, blockages are caused by food waste, hair, or soap residue, making them relatively simple home repairs that you can tackle yourself. In this article, we will outline eight tried-and-true methods, such as using boiling water and dish soap, combining baking soda and vinegar, and even pouring down some Coca-Cola. These natural solutions can help you clear those blocked drains, saving you time, money, and the hassle of dealing with a professional plumber.
One effective method is to start with boiling water and dish soap, which is the simplest and least expensive option. By carefully pouring a mixture of boiling water and a couple of teaspoons of liquid dish soap down the drain, you can warm and liquefy any grease clogs, allowing them to flow freely out of the pipe. If you have plastic pipes, it’s important to note that boiling water can cause damage, so you may want to skip this step and try some of the alternative methods outlined. Another popular technique is combining baking soda and vinegar, renowned for its powerful fizzing action that effectively removes grime and unclogs the drain.
By allowing this mixture to sit for about an hour before flushing it out with hot water, you are likely to see significant improvements in the flow of water. Additionally, using baking soda and salt can also produce excellent results, particularly against blockages and foul drain odors. Both natural compounds, when combined and poured into the drain, undergo a strong chemical reaction that has the potential to clear most blockages. With these easy and affordable techniques, you can take control of those clogged drains and restore functionality to your kitchen and bathroom sinks.
8 Fast and Easy Ways to Unclog Drains Naturally
Clogged drains are a common problem in kitchens and bathrooms. Dealing with a clogged drain can be a nightmare, but fortunately, there are fast and easy ways to unclog drains using natural ingredients you already have at home. By using simple household items such as boiling water, dish soap, baking soda, vinegar, salt, hydrogen peroxide, Coca-Cola, plungers, wire coat hangers, and drain traps, you can save money on expensive plumber services and fix the problem yourself.
Number 1 – Start with Boiling Water and Dish Soap
The simplest and least expensive method to try first is using boiling water and dish soap. Boil 2 liters of water and add a couple of teaspoons of liquid dish soap. Carefully pour this mixture down the drain. Boiling water is especially effective for grease clogs as it warms the grease, allowing it to flow freely out of the pipe. This method may require a few attempts, but you’ll be astonished at how well it works. However, be cautious if you have plastic pipes, as boiling water can cause damage.
Number 2 – Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
A tried-and-true method for unclogging drains is combining baking soda and vinegar. Mix 1/3 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of vinegar and pour it down the drain. The fizzing action created by the reaction between baking soda and vinegar helps remove the grime clogging the drain. For best results, let it sit for about an hour before flushing it out with hot water.
Number 3 – Try Baking Soda and Salt
Another effective combination for unclogging drains is baking soda and salt. This DIY method not only helps with blockages but also tackles foul drain odors. Combine ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of salt, and pour the mixture down the drain. Allow it to sit for a few hours, then follow with a pot of hot water. The chemical reaction produced by these compounds has the potential to clear most blockages.
Number 4 – Mix Hydrogen Peroxide with Baking Soda
Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to unclog drains. Mix a cup of hydrogen peroxide with a spoonful of baking soda, and pour this mixture down your drain. The fizzing action indicates that it’s working. Over time, the obstruction will break up, and your drain will be cleared.
Number 5 – Pour Down Some Coca-Cola
Believe it or not, regular Coca-Cola can be an excellent drain cleaner due to its corrosive properties. Pour it gently down your clogged drain and let it sit for a few hours. The cola will start dissolving the blockage and may even completely dislodge it. After a few hours, flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining debris.
Number 6 – Use A Plunger
When dealing with a clogged drain, a plunger can be a handy tool. There are two types of plungers: flange plungers for toilets and cup plungers for sinks, showers, and tubs. For a completely clogged drain, remove the drain stopper and fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger’s suction cup. Plunge using the same motions as you would with a toilet. The changes in pressure will eventually dislodge and carry away the blockage.
Number 7 – Use A Wire Coat Hanger
If a plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a wire coat hanger as a DIY version of a drain snake. Straighten a wire coat hanger, leaving only the hook intact, and wrap the end with duct tape to prevent scratching the pipe. Insert the hook end into the pipe and gently fish out the clog. This method is particularly effective for obstructions caused by hair or food particles. After removing the clog, pour hot water down the drain to clear any remaining debris.
Number 8 – Remove and Clean the Drain Trap
Clogs can sometimes form in the drain trap located beneath the sink in a cabinet. To clean the drain trap, clear the area and place a bucket underneath the drain to catch any water or debris that may fall out. Carefully remove the P-trap from the drain pipe and clear out any lodged items. Once done, reattach the P-trap and run hot water through the pipes for a few minutes to complete the process.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Clogged Drains
Once your drain is clear, it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid future clogs. Avoid dumping harmful items down the drain, especially fats and oils, coffee grounds, food scraps, and hair. Replace your standard drain stopper with one that prevents unwanted materials from going down the drain in the first place. Additionally, regularly pouring equal parts vinegar and baking soda down the drain can help maintain clear and fresh-smelling drains.
Conclusion
Dealing with clogged drains doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By using these eight fast and easy natural methods, you can save money and fix the problem yourself. From boiling water and dish soap to baking soda and vinegar, each method has its advantages for different types of clogs. Remember to take preventive measures to avoid future clogs and maintain the health of your drains. With a little DIY effort, you can keep your drains flowing smoothly and save yourself from calling an expensive plumber.
