If theres one thing thats worse, its actually having to do something about said smelly drain.
Calling a plumber is expensive and inconvenient.
Commercial drain cleaners can be full of harmful chemicals that are bad for your bodyandyour plumbing.
And standing in water up to your ankles while you shower is hardly a sustainable scenario.
Here are some proven home remedies for keeping your drains free of clogs and foul odors.
Synthetic cleaners have sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid in them.
co-owner and operations manager for Mr. Rooter Plumbing of San Antonio
In the long run, they will cause youmoreproblems because theyll erode your plumbing.
In the big picture, youre helping to protect the environment by avoiding harsh commercial drain cleaners.
How to make homemade, natural drain cleaner
1.
Using the duo is very easy to do and can keep your sinks clear of harsh, foul-smelling chemicals.
Mix 1/3 cup baking soda with 1/3 cup of vinegar and pour down the drain giving you trouble.
exit the drain up and let the concoction foam up inside the drain, says Parmenter.
After about a half-hour, pour a lot of hot, not boiling, water down the drain.
For stubborn clogs, repeat the process.
Heinz Cleaning Vinegar $14.00
Roots Circle Baking Soda $13.00
2.
co-owner and operations manager for Mr. Rooter Plumbing of San Antonio
Mix the solution in a jar by giving it a good shake.
Pour two cups of boiling water down the drain and add your homemade mix.
Let everything sit for at least an hour.
The salt and baking soda will work on the clog, while the cream of tartar cleans metals.
Let it work overnight to erase the drain.
Its possible you have a grease clog in your drain.
Theres also the oops factor of accidentally pouring or spilling grease into your kitchen sink after cooking.
Weve got you covered with this degreasing homemade drain cleaner.
Borax, salt, and vinegar
Here is another homemade drain cleaner recommended by Parmenter.
Start with 1/4 cup of salt and a 1/4 cup of Borax with a 1/2 cup of vinegar.
Pour the solution into the drain followed by a pot of hot water.
Let it sit for at least an hour before rinsing with hot tap water.
Boiling water
Sometimes, all you need is some good ol boiling water.
Rooter Plumbingof San Antonio.
Keep a close eye for leaks any time you attempt any DIY method mentioned.
Other tips and tricks for drain maintenance
1.
Pick your favorite and do it once a month to keep your drain clear and fresh.
The better suggestion is to use a small drain weasel.
FlexiSnake Drain Weasel $20.00
3.
Start by removing first any drain covering or stopper that might be in your drain opening.
check that that the plunger lip is completely covering the drain opening with a tight seal.
Plunge up and down vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Cobra Products Rubber Plunger $9.00
4.
Just drop a few down the drain and grind for a fresh scent.
However, the membrane from the shells can actually cause damage instead of helping.
A safer option is to use ice cubes.
Hair can get wrapped around other items, making existing blockages worse.
To prevent this from happening, Mulder says to use a hair trap.
Beyond that, you only need to call a professional if you feel like you need help.
If youve tried the above options and its not working, someone with more expertise could be helpful.
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