If your drain is clogged or emptying slowly, you may need a plumber to snake the pipes and clear them out. But before you call in a professional, there’s an easy and eco-friendly way to clear out the blockage yourself. This technique won’t work on every clog, but it’s worth trying to save money and time.

How to Unclog Your Drain

1. Boil Water

Start by heating a kettle or pot of water, then pour it down the drain. This will help loosen any grease or gunk clinging to the plumbing. If your pipes are old and delicate, use hot tap water instead of boiling water.

2. Add Baking Soda

Once the hot water has had a chance to clear, pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain. You’ll want to let this sit for a few minutes so it can begin to work on the clog.

3. Add Vinegar

If you’ve ever mixed baking soda and vinegar, you can imagine how this bubbling mixture will blast through the grime clogging the pipes. Mix one cup of hot water with one cup of vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain.

4. Cover the Drain

You don’t want the baking soda and vinegar mixture to turn the sink or bathtub into an impromptu volcano. Plug the drain to keep the reaction in the pipes and leave it in place for ten minutes.

5. Add More Hot Water

While your vinegar and baking soda mixture is busting grime deposits, put another pot of water on to boil. After ten minutes, unplug the drain and pour the hot water down. This will help wash away any loose material.

By following these steps, you can clean the walls of your pipes safely. After this treatment, most drains will be running smoothly and easily. If yours isn’t, call a plumber for more thorough drain cleaning and expert help. 

For 29 years, RooterOne in Port Saint Lucie, FL, has served as the area’s most reliable emergency plumber. Whether you need a simple drain cleaning or extensive septic maintenance, their knowledgeable, experienced crew will respond quickly to take care of your problem and get the pipes working again. For service, call (877) 500-0046.