Vinegar and Baking Soda
If hot water alone doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to bring in a classic DIY method. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar can be powerful enough to loosen up some tough clogs. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain. You can use a funnel to make this step easier if needed. Follow with half a cup of vinegar. The fizzing reaction is important, as it helps break down build-up inside your pipes. Cover your drain with a plug or plate to contain the reaction and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. This gives the mixture time to work on the clog. Flush with hot water to wash everything away. The beauty of this method is that it’s non-toxic and won’t harm your pipes. It also leaves your drains smelling fresh, which is a nice bonus. If the clog is too severe you might have to step things up a notch.
Using a Drain Snake
Sometimes a clog just won’t budge, no matter how much you pour down the drain. In cases like these, a drain snake can help. This tool is designed to physically break up or pull out whatever is causing the blockage. It’s a little more effort, but it’s worth it for a stubborn clog. Insert the snake into the drain until you feel some resistance. This means you’ve reached the clog. Twist the handle of the snake to help it latch onto the blockage. Depending on what’s clogging the pipe, you may feel the snake break through the material or hook onto it. Slowly pull the snake back out of the drain and bring the clog with it. Be prepared for some scary sights. Run hot water down the drain to make sure everything is cleared out. Drain snakes are affordable and available at most hardware stores, so they are a great tool to have on hand for future clogs. Just remember to be gentle to avoid scratching or damaging your pipes.
Plungers
When you think of a plunger, your first thought might be toilet clogs, but plungers can also work wonders on sink, tub, or shower drains. A sink or cup plunger is different from a toilet plunger, so make sure you’re using the right type. Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the plunger's rubber head. This creates a better seal and adds weight to help force the clog out. Position the plunger over the drain and make sure it’s completely covering the opening. Push and pull the plunger vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. The suction and pressure should loosen the clog. Lift the plunger quickly to break the seal and see if the water drains. It may take a couple of tries but don’t give up too quickly. A plunger can be highly effective at clearing clogs, especially if they’re caused by trapped air or minor obstructions.
When It’s Time to Call a Pro
If you’ve tried all the tricks in the book and your drain is still giving you trouble, it’s probably time to call in the professionals. Some blockages are just too stubborn or too deep for DIY methods to handle. Plumbers have the tools and experience to diagnose and fix the problem more efficiently. If your clog is a symptom of a larger plumbing issue, you’ll be glad you called in the pros.
Do You Need Professional Drain Cleaning or a Clogged Drain Line Repair?
If home remedies don’t get the job done, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We provide reliable drain cleaning and emergency clogged drain line repair. We know how frustrating it can be to deal with slow or blocked drains, and our goal is to get your home back in working order as quickly as possible. Whether it’s using advanced techniques like hydro-jetting or simply identifying underlying issues, we’ve got your back. Contact us to schedule a plumbing service with a local plumber in your area.
