How to Unclog a Drain With Baking Soda
One of the easiest ways to remedy minor clogs is with baking soda, distilled white vinegar, and hot water.
- Remove the strainer or stopper on the sink or bathtub.
- Cover the overflow opening on the bathtub or sink with a wet cloth.
- Loosen clogs by running hot water down the drain for two to three minutes.
- Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
- Cover the drain and let the cleaning solution sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Pour hot water down the drain (or boiling water if your water doesn’t get very hot).
- Reinstall the strainer or stopper.
Make sure to evaluate your plumbing before using boiling water to unclog a drain, as it can damage porcelain sinks and PVC piping.
How to Unclog a Drain With Pliers
The main culprit of bathtub clogs is hair caught under the drain stopper, which can typically be extracted with needle nose pliers. But if you take off the drain stopper and don’t see a visible clog, it may have traveled into the pipes and one of the above methods may be necessary to remove it.
- Remove the drain stopper.
- Locate the clog and use pliers to gently remove it.
- Reinstall the strainer or stopper.
How to Unclog a Drain With Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
If you’re looking for a chemical-free way to clear buildup like grease, soap scum, and food particles from your drain, you may want to try an enzymatic drain cleaner. These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the clog over time. For this reason, they are a good option for maintenance or minor clogs but not severe clogs.
- Remove the drain stopper.
- Pour the enzymatic drain cleaner into the drain, according to the package instructions.
- Let the solution sit for several hours or overnight.
- Run warm water through the drain to flush away any debris.
- Reinstall the strainer or stopper.
Hope this helps!!