Six DIY Drain Cleaning Hacks

Keeping your drains clear can save you from expensive repairs and maintain your home’s plumbing. These six simple and effective DIY hacks will help tackle common blockages with everyday household items.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a classic drain-cleaning solution. The chemical reaction that takes place between the two breaks down debris and clears clogs effectively.

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Add ½ cup of vinegar.
3. Cover the drain with a cloth to trap the fizzing reaction.
4. After 30 minutes, flush the drain with hot water.

This method is gentle on pipes while being powerful against common blockages.

Salt and Baking Soda Solution

For tougher clogs, mix equal parts salt and baking soda. Pour the mixture into the drain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Once the time is up, rinse with boiling water to clear the blockage and deodorise the pipe.

Boiling Water Method

The boiling water method is a straightforward solution for minor clogs, particularly grease build-up in kitchen sinks. Using boiling hot water, slowly pour it down the drain in stages, allowing time for the heat to work on the blockage.

Avoid using this method with PVC pipes, as excessive heat may damage them.

If any of these DIY methods don’t work and you’re contemplating a CCTV drain survey Nottingham for example, consider checking out a specialist such as https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/nottingham.

Use a Drain Snake

A drain snake is ideal for clogs located deep within the pipes. Insert the snake, twist the handle to break up the blockage, and remove the debris.

Wet/Dry Vacuum

For this method, set the vacuum to liquid mode, create a seal over the drain, and suck out the clog. This method works well for stubborn debris like hair or food scraps.

Dish Soap and Hot Water

When dealing with greasy clogs, add a generous amount of dish soap to the drain before flushing with boiling water. The soap cuts through grease, while hot water washes it away.