A clogged drain can be frustrating, but with a few simple household ingredients and tools, you can easily clean your drains without the cost or hassle of calling a plumber. Here are several effective methods you can try at home.

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1. Use Boiling Water

Boiling water is a simple and effective solution for lightly clogged drains. This method works particularly well for kitchen sinks clogged with grease or food debris, but it can also be used for bathroom drains.

• Boil a kettle of water.

• Carefully pour the boiling water directly into the drain.

The hot water will soften grease, soap scum, and other residues, helping them flow down the drain more easily. This method is quick, chemical-free, and safe for most pipes.

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2. Dish Soap, Salt, and White Vinegar

You can make a natural drain cleaner using common kitchen ingredients.

• In a bowl, combine a small amount of dish soap, salt, and white vinegar.

• Add enough boiling water to dissolve the mixture thoroughly.

Pour the solution into the drain and let it sit for a few minutes. The mixture will help break down grease and debris. Afterward, rinse the drain with hot water to flush away loosened residues. This will leave your drain clean and odor-free.

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3. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda is not just a kitchen ingredient; it’s also excellent for cleaning and unclogging drains.

• Pour baking soda directly into the drain.

• Slowly add vinegar. The reaction between vinegar and baking soda produces fizzy bubbles that help loosen debris.

• Wait 5–10 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

This combination is especially effective for stubborn clogs caused by grease, soap scum, or hair.

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4. Using a Coat Hanger

A metal coat hanger can be turned into a simple tool for removing physical blockages:

• Straighten a coat hanger and bend one end into a hook.

• If there is a drain cover, remove it.

• Carefully insert the hanger into the drain and hook or pull out any debris.

• Repeat several times until the water flows freely.

For convenience, you can place a small bag nearby to catch debris. This method works best for hair clogs in bathroom drains.

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5. Use a Plunger

A plunger is a classic and highly effective tool for clearing blocked drains:

• Place the plunger over the drain opening, ensuring a tight seal.

• Press down and pull up repeatedly to create suction.

• The pressure helps dislodge the blockage and allows water to flow again.

For best results, repeat the process several times until the clog is completely cleared.

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Extra Tips

• Always start with the least aggressive methods, like boiling water or baking soda and vinegar, to avoid damaging your pipes.

• Avoid using chemical drain cleaners frequently, as they can corrode pipes over time.

• Regular maintenance, such as pouring boiling water or baking soda weekly, can prevent clogs from forming.

• For hair-heavy bathroom drains, consider installing a drain cover to catch debris before it enters the pipes.

By using these simple and cost-effective methods, you can keep your drains clear and functioning properly without having to call a plumber.