Tips to Unclog Clogged Drains in Your Plumbing
A simple plunger can do wonders for many drain clogs. However, some clogs are deeper or more
serious, requiring more advanced tools or even professional help. For help with plumbing, sites like
https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ has a lot of resources. Keep in mind that
natural light remedies at home are only for small plumbing issues that could worsen if repaired
incorrectly.
Before reaching for a chemical clog remover, try these natural tips to unclog your drains instead! Natural
solutions are healthier for your pipes and the environment.
1. Boil Water and Dish Soap
A straightforward and eco-friendly method, boiling water can help tackle soap scum, grease, and other soft
clogs. To utilize this solution, begin by boiling a large quantity of water—enough to fill the affected drain
pipe. Then, squirt a liberal amount of dish soap into the clogged drain. Dish soap has natural degreasing
properties, which
helps break down fatty substances and dissolve clog-causing residue.
Once the mixture begins to fizz, it's time to let the reaction work its magic. Wait at least 30 minutes to give
the chemical solution a chance to eat away at the clog and flush out the pipe.
If you're dealing with a particularly stubborn clog, consider mixing baking soda and vinegar. This
combination is similar to the cola solution, but with more of a punch. Be sure to use name-brand cola (no
diet soda!) for best results.
2. Bend a Wire Hanger
Clogged toilets are one of the most common household problems that homeowners face. Fortunately, it is
also one of the easiest to fix – without the need for harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. Instead,
grab a wire hanger and bend it into a shape that can hook globs of hair and gunk. Then, carefully lower the
bent end of the hanger into your toilet drain and wiggle it around to catch anything that is stuck in the pipe.
If the clog isn’t dislodged by bending the hanger, try pouring a kettle of boiling water down the drain. Be sure
to let the water cool in between each pour to avoid burning your hands! If nothing else works, it might be
time to call a plumber. Seriously clogged drains are no joke, and they can cause serious plumbing issues
that require professional help to resolve.
3. Use a Drain Snake
The next time your drain is clogged, try using a plumber’s snake (also known as a drain auger). These long
metal cables can mechanically power through and dislodge blockages of hair clumps, congealed grease
and gunk, stuck objects, or more.
When a snake is properly used, its rotating auger head works like a screw to bore into and latch onto the
clog, breaking it up or spinning it around for easier removal when you retract the cable. Once the clog is
gone, remove the snake and run plenty of water through your sink or tub to ensure everything flushes
away.
To use the snake, start by removing the P-trap – a U-shaped section of pipe located under your sink where
clogs often gather. Then, insert the end of the snake into your sink’s drain opening and crank the handle to
feed it into the drainpipe. If you feel resistance, keep cranking to push the snake further into your clogged
drain until you hit the obstruction.
4. Pour Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are a safe and natural home remedy that can help unclog your drain. This
simple chemical reaction works well to break up hair and other debris that can build up in your pipes. To
try this method, first pour a cup of baking soda into the drain and wait several minutes for it to react with
the vinegar. Then, pour a cup of hot water down the drain to help flush away any remaining clogs and
debris.
This trick is also a great alternative to store-bought drain cleaners, which can be toxic for your pipes and
can cause skin redness or eye irritation. You can use this method as often as you need to, and it’s even a
good idea to do so before using any other household cleaners down the drain. This will keep your drains
smelling fresh and help prevent future clogs. It’s also a fun way to get kids involved in household chores!
