Tips&TricksUnclog drains efficiently: A guide to using baking soda, vinegar, and aspirin

Unclog drains efficiently: A guide to using baking soda, vinegar, and aspirin

A clogged sink drain in the kitchen or bathroom seriously complicates daily life. Yet, you don't always have to call a plumber to solve it. Often, you can unclog the sink using home remedies. How do you do it? Reach for tablets readily available at any pharmacy.

Unclog drains efficiently: A guide to using baking soda, vinegar, and aspirin
Images source: © Freepik

10 May 2024 16:37

Hair, soap, fat, and food residues can clog the sink. Products like wipes, cosmetic wipes, or plasters can also contribute to blockages. Sometimes, even minor neglect can clog the drain. Do you necessarily need to call a plumber for a clogged drain in the bathroom or kitchen? It's worth trying a home remedy that is both safe and effective before doing so.

Baking soda and vinegar can clear the blockage

If you realize the water isn't draining during a shower, it's a clear sign of a clogged drain. Such problems often result from neglect but can affect anyone, even in a well-maintained home.

To prevent this, it's best to clean the drain regularly. You don't need to spend money on expensive products. Just once a week, use a mixture of one package of baking soda and a cup of hot vinegar. These ingredients react to create a foam that cleanses the pipes. This method is effective for both bathroom and kitchen sinks, especially for smaller blockages caused by organic matter.

Clogging the drain in the bathroom is easy. Residues of conditioner, soap, and hair accumulate almost daily. For clogs caused by these, soda and vinegar might not suffice. In such cases, it's necessary to use chemical drain cleaners. Be cautious when using them - they are effective but can be harmful. They often contain strong chemicals that may adversely affect health. Moreover, the wrong products can damage your plumbing.

Want to dislodge hair from the pipes? Try aspirin and vinegar

So, can you dissolve hair in the pipes using home remedies? Yes, there's a simple and effective method. You will need aspirin and vinegar. First, pour two to three crushed aspirin tablets into the clogged drain, then add a cup of hot vinegar.

After applying this mix, you'll likely hear bubbling, and an unpleasant odour may emerge from the pipes. This indicates that the mixture is working. After 15 minutes, rinse the drain with a cup of boiling water. The aspirin and vinegar effectively remove contaminants and mitigate any unpleasant smells from the pipes.

How to prevent blockages in the drain?

As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Therefore, it's useful to know how to avoid clogs in the sink. Here are some tips:

  1. Use a strainer: A strainer in the sink can prevent large food residues, hair, and other debris from entering the pipes.
  2. Avoid pouring fats down the sink: Dispose of fats and oils in organic waste or a sealed container. In the pipes, these substances can solidify and create stubborn clogs.
  3. Conduct regular inspections: Checking the condition of pipes and plumbing can help identify potential issues before they become serious blockages. Consult a professional plumber if necessary.
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