There’s nothing like a hearty, home-cooked meal! But a clogged drain and backed-up sink can quickly ruin the enjoyment of that dinner. Before you reach for that chemical drain cleaner, consider trying one of Mr. Plumber’s tips for natural drain cleaning.
The Dangers Of Chemical Drain Cleaner
Liquid drain cleaners may seem innocuous, but that’s only until you look at the label. Most of these cleaners have hazard warning symbols on them. Meaning that they are harmful, corrosive, oxidizing and very flammable, and they should not be inhaled, swallowed or touched. This is because chemical drain cleaners usually contain sodium hydroxide, which can also cause drain cleaner poisoning, according to MedlinePlus.
If health warnings aren’t enough, there’s another reason not to use chemical drain cleaner. The same chemicals that are dangerous for you are also dangerous for your pipes. These harsh cleaners may dissolve clogs, but they can also damage your home’s plumbing system.
How To Unclog A Drain
Because of the hazards of chemical cleaners, we at Mr. Plumber suggest homeowners opt for a more natural route in drain cleaning. After all, these natural methods are just as effective as chemical cleaners, but without the dangers!
Tools And Materials For A Clogged Drain
Clogged drains happen. That’s why homeowners should invest in a few inexpensive tools and materials to help when the time comes!
- Plunger: a sturdy handle and large rubber bowl will provide the most force.
- Snake: ⅜- or ¼-inch thickness with a 20-foot length.
- Bucket: any option will work, it just needs to fit under the drain.
- Vinegar: an acid that can eat through clogging materials.
- Baking soda: a deodorizer that can help with grease and odors.
- Coarse salt: abrasive and antiseptic, salt can scrub away sticky food trapped in pipes.
- Boiling water*: like baking soda, hot water can also loosen clogging materials and flush out clogs.
*Please note, that only metal, copper or galvanized steel pipes can withstand boiling water.
Natural Drain Cleaner Tips
There isn’t just one recipe for natural drain cleaner, so we have a few! We also have a few tips for how to unclog your drain without making a solution, too.
- Try out a drain snake. Clean out any visible blockages and standing water first, and then push the snake into the drain until it hits the clog. This can also be done after using a cleaning solution if that didn’t resolve the clog.
- Use a plunger. Some drain clogs are tough and they require a plunger to vacuum out the blockage. To use a plunger correctly, fill the sink or tub with an inch of water before inserting and pumping the plunger.
- Clear grease clogs with baking soda and salt. Pour a mixture of one-half cup baking soda and one-half cup of salt down the drain. Then, chase this with one quart of boiling water. Let the mixture sit overnight and flush it out with hot water in the morning.
- Try this recipe for food clogs. Pour one quart of boiling water down your drain, immediately followed by a mixture of one-half cup baking soda, one-half cup vinegar and hot water. Let this solution sit for twenty minutes, then flush it out with hot water.
Reliable Plumbing And Drain Services in San Antonio
At Mr. Plumber, we know how important it is to have a plumber you can trust. Whether you’re dealing with a severe clog or leaky pipes, we will fix it! We have been proudly serving the San Antonio Texas area for decades, and satisfaction is our top priority.
If you’re dealing with a plumbing emergency, you can always call Mr. Plumber! We have 24/7 emergency services, because your comfort matters. Call today to speak with our friendly staff!
