At some point, one of your drains might start draining slowly. This usually happens because of a buildup of hair, soap, dirt, or other gunk. It’s important to fix it quickly so water keeps flowing and doesn’t overflow.
There are store-bought drain cleaners available, including natural ones. But if you want to save money, avoid harsh chemicals, or just don’t have any cleaner on hand, here’s how to unclog a drain using simple, eco-friendly methods.
How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?
Clean the drain as soon as you notice it’s draining slowly.
Once a week: Pour hot water down the kitchen and bathroom drains.
Once a month: Use a mix of vinegar and baking soda, then rinse with boiling water to help keep pipes clear. If the issue persists, consider calling professional plumbing services.
What You’ll Need:
- A plunger
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A drain snake (a long wire tool)
- A bucket
- An adjustable wrench (for loosening pipes)
Steps to Unclog a Drain Without Chemicals:
Step 1: Use a Plunger
Take out the drain cover or stopper. Fill the sink halfway with water, then plunge up and down several times. If it’s a double sink, plug the other side to help build pressure.
Step 2: Try Vinegar With Baking Soda
Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for about 30 minutes. Then pour boiling water down the drain.
Step 3: Use a Drain Snake
If the clog is still there, try using a drain snake. Push it down the drain to break up or pull out the blockage. Be careful with old pipes—they can be fragile.
Step 4: Take Apart the Pipes (Only If You’re Comfortable)
If nothing else works:
- Turn off the water under the sink.
- Take a photo of the pipes so you can put them back together correctly.
- Place a bucket under the curved pipe (called a p-trap).
- Use a wrench to unscrew the pipes.
- Clean them out, then screw them back on.
- Turn the water back on and check for leaks.
How to Get Rid of and Prevent Bad Smells in Your Drain?
So, how to clear a drain? If you clean your drains regularly, they usually won’t smell. But sometimes, odors can still happen. Here are some simple ways to get rid of bad smells and keep your drains fresh:
1. Run the Garbage Disposal (Kitchen Sink Only)
If your kitchen sink has a garbage disposal, turn it on regularly to break down leftover food. Always run cold water before, during, and after using it to help flush everything down.
2. Use Boiling Water and Dish Soap
Boil a pot of water and mix in some dish soap. Carefully pour the hot soapy water down the drain. Wait a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.
3. Try Salt and Lemon Peels
Pour some salt into the drain to help scrub the inside. Then cut up lemon peels and drop them in. Run the garbage disposal for a clean, fresh smell.
How to Keep Your Drain Clean for Longer?
To keep your drains working well and smelling fresh, try these best ways to unclog a drain:
- Use a drain strainer to catch hair and soap before it goes down the drain.
- Run cold water before and after using the garbage disposal to rinse food scraps all the way through.
- Don’t pour oil or fat down any drain—it hardens and causes clogs.
- Avoid putting eggshells or coffee grounds in the sink; they can damage or block the garbage disposal.
- Wash off dirt outside if you’ve been gardening or landscaping—grass and mud can clog the drain.
- Try not to rinse hair down the drain. Even small hairs can build up over time and block the pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use vinegar and baking soda than Drano?
Vinegar and baking soda are a natural and safe way to clear small clogs. Many people like it more than strong chemical cleaners like Drano. It works well for light blockages, and if you use it regularly, you might avoid clogs altogether.
How to unclog a kitchen sink without a plunger?
To unclog a kitchen sink without a plunger, pour a mix of vinegar with baking soda down the drain, let it fizz for 15–30 minutes, then flush with boiling water. You can also try using a wire hanger or a drain snake to pull out the clog.
Can I leave baking soda in the drain overnight?
Yes, it’s safe to let baking soda (and vinegar) sit in the drain overnight. Just remember to pour boiling water down the drain afterward to wash it all through.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clear a drain?
Yes, hydrogen peroxide is safe and can help break down stuff like skin cells stuck in the pipes. It also helps kill germs and gets rid of bad smells. But never mix it with vinegar, because that can create dangerous fumes.
