Dealing with clogged drains can be super annoying and time-consuming. We’ve all been there – standing in a pool of water while the sink slowly drains or desperately plunging away. Sure, you can give a call to emergency drain service philadelphia for a quick fix. But be sure to ask if they don’t use harsh chemicals. What if they use harsh chemical drain cleaners?
If that’s the case, why not give natural alternatives a try? Not only are they better for the environment, but they can also be just as effective at unclogging your pipes. Best of all, you probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. So what are those? Here is the answer.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Here’s how it works: start by pouring about half a cup of this eco-friendly solution down your drain. Follow that with an equal amount of vinegar, and immediately cover the drain to trap the fizzy reaction happening below. The chemical chain reaction between baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) creates carbon dioxide gas, which helps break up any gunk or debris stuck in your pipes. It also acts as a natural deodorizer, leaving your drains smelling fresh. Be sure to let it sit for a minimum of 15 minutes to let it work its magic. Afterward, flush it down with hot water. You may need to repeat this process a few times for stubborn clogs, but you’ll be amazed at how effective this simple solution can be.
Boiling Water
Boiling water is a simple yet effective natural drain cleaner that you can easily whip up in your kitchen. It requires no special ingredients or preparation, making it a convenient solution for clogged drains. To use boiling water as a drain cleaner, start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil.
Then, keep track of the process by pouring the boiling water down the clogged drain, ensuring that it goes directly into the pipe. The hot temperature helps to dissolve any grease or debris that may be causing the blockage. However, note that boiling water should only be used on metal or PVC pipes. Avoid using this method on older or fragile pipes, as the high temperature could cause damage.
Salt and Borax
Don’t underestimate the power of salt, borax, and vinegar when it comes to unclogging stubborn drains. First up is salt. Not only does it add flavor to your meals, but it can also help break down grease and grime in your pipes. Simply mix half a cup of salt with hot water and pour it down the drain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Next in line is borax – a naturally occurring mineral that has been used as a cleaning agent for centuries. The properties of alkaline it contains have such a powerful effect that can easily break down organic matter that may be causing blockages in your drains.
Remember to always use caution when handling these ingredients, especially when mixing them together or using them near sensitive surfaces like chrome or porcelain.
Lemon and Baking Soda
When lemon juice and baking soda are mixed together, they basically also create a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This fizzing action helps break down grease, grime, and other buildup in your drains. Not only does this combination effectively clean your drains, but it also leaves behind a fresh citrus scent. Plus, both lemon and baking soda are non-toxic and safe for septic systems.
Next time you’re faced with a clogged or smelly drain, give these simple yet powerful remedies a try. You’ll be amazed at how effective these everyday ingredients can be at keeping your drains clean and odor-free.
