Amazing Tips For Blocked Draining Cleaning
Clogged drains are a pesky household problem that can happen without warning. Dirty water backing up into sinks or tubs is not only gross, but can also lead to messy overflowing if a clog is left unchecked.
As per most experienced and professional block drain plumbers, when facing backed-up drains, many homeowners' first instinct is to reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners. However, these products can sometimes do more harm than good by corroding pipes. Thankfully, there are many homemade, natural blocked draining cleaning options that can dissolve clogs without damaging plumbing.
This article outlines amazing tips using common kitchen ingredients to clear drains safely and effectively. With a few simple supplies, one can break down blockages and restore free flowing pipes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar - A Fizzy Powerhouse
For light clogs, baking soda and vinegar can work wonders. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the blocked drain, followed by 1 cup warm white vinegar. The resulting chemical reaction creates fizzy foam that helps break up grime. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with hot water. Repeat as needed for stubborn clogs. The acids in vinegar disintegrate blockages without harsh chemicals.
Boiling Water to Melt Gunk Away
For sludgy sink clogs, boiling water alone may do the trick. Heat loosens stuck-on gunk. Simply bring a full kettle to a boil, then carefully pour the hot water down the drain. Let it sit for several minutes to melt grease. Follow with a good flush of cool water. The temperature difference helps dislodge the clog. Just be cautious not to burn yourself when pouring.
The Power of Salt and Baking Soda
For a more abrasive approach, try mixing 1/2 cup salt with 1/4 cup baking soda and pouring down the drain. Let sit overnight, then flush with hot water. The grainy salt acts as a scrubber to scour away grime so it can wash freely down the pipes. Salt is non-toxic and inexpensive. This method can break up even stubborn backups. Just don’t use a septic system, as the salt may clog the tank.
Unclog with a Plunger
For drains moving slowly, a simple plunger can get things flowing freely again. Fill the sink halfway with water to cover the drain opening. Vigorously plunge up and down 10-15 times to create pressure suction. Repeat if needed. The water creates a seal so the suction force targets the clog. Use quick, forceful plunges to dislodge gunk. A plunger is effective and inexpensive.
The Handy Drain Snake
For deeper clogs, a flexible drain snake can reach places other methods can't. Feed the hooked wire end down the pipe and twist gently. This helps grab hair, soap scum and other debris so it can be pulled out. Look for plastic drain snakes designed for sinks so they don't scratch fixtures. With repetitive passes, a drain snake will clear out even the toughest bathroom drain backups.
Prevent Clogs with Maintenance
To avoid future clogged drains, perform regular maintenance. Monthly, flush pipes with baking soda and vinegar or hot water to clean soap scum and grease before it sticks. Use drain strainers to catch hair and food scraps. Proactively keeping drains clear is easy with minor monthly maintenance.
Conclusion
By using items already in the kitchen, drain clogs can be cleared quickly and easily without damaging pipes or costing a fortune. With the right techniques and a little elbow grease, backups and slow drains are no match for the power of household science. Unclogging drains yourself saves the hassle and expense of a plumber.
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