Home remedies to clear blocked drains without chemicals
A blocked drain in the bathtub or sink is an issue many people encounter. There can be numerous causes – from accumulating hair to settling soap scum and residues. How can you clear it using simple, home remedies?
Most of us have faced a situation where the drain in the bathtub or sink became blocked at least once. Hair build-up and soap residues can seriously obstruct water flow, leading to plumbing headaches. However, before deciding to call in a professional, it's worth trying home remedies that can be just as effective.
How to unblock a drain?
One of the most effective methods to unclog a drain filled with hair was shared by a TikTok user named flawia.dom. As described in her video, the key to success is a cable tie.
- Take a long cable tie and cut small hooks into it.
- Insert it into the drain and gently extract the accumulated hair.
- A clean bathtub in mere seconds – without chemicals and costly tools.
"Simple, effective, and zero mess!" she wrote.
Alternative methods
One of the most popular and straightforward solutions is using baking soda and vinegar. Pour a few tablespoons of baking soda into the drain, then add a cup of vinegar. Allow these substances to react for about 15 minutes, then flush it all through with hot water. Baking soda and vinegar create a mixture that effectively dissolves deposits.
Another method involves using a rubber plunger. Few people realise its effectiveness. The plunger, working on the principle of pressure, aids in freeing up blockages in pipes. Before opting for a plumbing service, it's worth investing in this tool, available in most hardware shops.
Using a plunger requires a bit of strength and technique. Proper sealing around the drain is crucial for effective operation. By creating a vacuum, the plunger forces out blockages in the pipes, allowing water to flow freely.
