Try these tips for unclogging a drain before calling a plumber.
Drains can clog from dirt buildup,soap scum, skin flakes, hair, and other waste.
And unclogging a drain is essential for keeping water flowing smoothly and avoiding an overflow.
Photo: adavino/Getty Images
There are plenty of good commercialdrain cleanerson the market, even some with plant-based formulas.
Every week, rinse the kitchen sink drain and bathroom drains with hot water.
Start plunging, gradually increasing the pressure to (hopefully) remove the clog.
If you have a double sink, plug the other side to get enough pressure toclear the clogged drain.
Let the mixture bubble and fizz for at least 30 minutes.
Then, pour a kettle of boiling water directly down the drain.
Be careful when using a drain snake, especially if pipes are older.
If you’re still having drainage issues, it’s time to call in a professional.
However, sometimes odors happen despite our best efforts to keep the drain clean.
Try these ideas for removing unpleasant smells from your drain and help it stay odor-free.
It works great for weaker drain clogs.
It is safe to leave baking soda (and vinegar) to work overnight to unclog a drain.
Always flush this mixture down with boiling waterno matter how long you leave it sitting in the drain.
Yes, hydrogen peroxide is safe to use for unclogging a drain.
It will dissolve and loosen natural matterlike skin cellsstuck in the pipes.
Hydrogen peroxide also reduces germs and disinfects the drain, helping it smell fresher and clean.
Just see to it younever mix vinegar with hydrogen peroxidebecause this can create toxic fumes.
