When we own a home, we already realize that there are many things that need to be done on a daily basis. It’s not just a matter of keeping up with the Joneses or perhaps just making sure that our house is clean, we also have various maintenance items that need to be done periodically as well. In fact, it seems as if you just finish one project when another project is ready to be done. You also have some surprises, and many times, they come in the form of a clogged drain.
What do you do whenever you have a clogged drain at your home? If you’re like most people, you try using a very strong chemical to break through the clog and to free the drain once again. It can be frustrating when it happens, and it does tend to happen at the most inconvenient times. What you may not realize is that the strong chemicals don’t work as well as they say they are going to work and at the same time, they can damage the pipes. If you are looking for a better way to unclog the drain, here are a number of eco-friendly options that will do the trick.
1. Baking soda and vinegar
Some people will say that this trick isn’t all that effective but if you have a small clog or if you just want to clean the debris that clings to the side of the drain, it will work just fine.
Pour in 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of vinegar. Chase the mixture with about 4 cups of boiling water.
This breaks down the grease and fat in the drain and the water flushes all of the particles away.
2. Salt and water
When your bathroom sink starts draining slowly it may be because there is a build up of soap and grease.
This trick is similar to baking soda and vinegar. Pour 1/2 cup of salt and chase it with boiling water.
The grit of the salt will work like a scrubber that cleans all of the hair, grease and other debris off of the pipes.
3. Dishwashing detergent
You probably never thought about using this kitchen staple to get rid of a clog but just think about how well it works on grease. Since it works at cleaning but can be used on the skin, it’s the perfect combination for cleaning your pipes.
Pour some into the toilet bowl before flushing it with hot water. It shouldn’t take long before you see results as the detergent does its trick on the blockage.
4. Physical work
You may try a number of different options but sometimes, you just need to use some elbow grease to get the job done. Make sure that you work smart rather than working hard.
If you want to avoid using a plunger, use a drain basket or a screen that will prevent the clogs in the first place.
If a clogged should happen to form, you can use a plunger to force it open. Just make sure that you don’t use the same plunger in the toilet and in your sink. You can also use a plumber snake.
If the plunger is not working you might want to try a wet-dry vacuum to get the job done. The process really breaks the clog and causes it to go down the pipes.
If all else fails, call a plumber.
5. Enzymes
For those who really want to be eco-conscious, you can use cleaning products that are made of live enzymes. Those enzymes will eat the clog away.
In many cases, the enzymes are able to dissolve the organic, greasy mess that tends to clog the pipes. You can find them at your local hardware store or purchase them online.