Store-bought drain cleaners like Liquid-Plumr® and Drano® contain harsh chemicals that are dangerous to both your plumbing and the environment. If you want an eco-friendly alternative that’s also gentle on your pipes, try a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar. The ingredients are cheap and easy to find at your local grocery store, and the results will leave your pipes and your conscience clean.
Directions
This method is best used in the bathroom or kitchen. Once you have your baking soda and vinegar, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. Follow with a 1/2 cup of baking soda. This acts as the scouring agent so let the baking soda sit for a few minutes. Next, mix 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of hot water. Pour the mixture down the drain. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, and this safe mini-explosion is what will break up the clog. Cover with a drain plug to keep most of the reaction in the drain and not in the sink. Let this sit for five to ten minutes.
Flush the drain one more time with another pot of boiling water. The clog should be clear now. For stubborn clogs, you can repeat the process as necessary. Remember, it is better to go slowly, repeating the process if needed, rather than change the measurements.
If This Doesn’t Work
Keep in mind that this method is not for very bad clogs. It’s more for routine maintenance or minor obstructions and does not replace calling a professional. For severe blockages, our technicians may need to snake your drain or even use jetting to flush out tough congestion. If this DIY technique didn’t work on your clog, Contact Us, and we’ll get your drains flowing again in no time.