Natural DIY Drain Cleaners

Natural DIY Drain Cleaners

It is really frustrating to have your sink clogged. But you can prevent it by taking some preventive measures regularly. An important precaution is to always keep a wire mesh in place over the wash basin and other drains. This small device helps preventing pipes from getting clogged, as it won't allow undesirable elements like hair and food particles to enter the pipelines. Ensure to keep the mesh clean at all times, otherwise it will begin to smell. There are many items that should not ever enter the drainage system, especially in homes with a septic system.

Though commercial drain cleaners can do the job, it is not advisable to use them. That's because the chemicals contained in such cleaners corrode the pipes, can harm the material used for making your tub and sink, are not good for septic tanks, and they are toxic in nature, and thus harmful to the environment. Frequent use of commercial cleaners corrodes the fixtures, making their replacement necessary, and adding to the expense of homeowners.

Using DIY drain cleaners

It is imperative to use DIY drain cleaners regularly to prevent the clogging of pipes. You should also understand that, compared to ready-to-use cleaners, these solutions are likely to take longer to be effective. Some such cleaners may take a longer time for showing any results.

The best DIY cleaner-baking soda

The most frequently employed DIY drain cleaner is a mixture of baking soda and cider vinegar in equal proportions. The powerful foaming action followed by lots of hot running water does the job efficiently. Depending on the severity of clogging, you may have to repeat the method.

Lemon juice with baking soda

Lemon juice has the same effect as cider vinegar a far as cleaning is concerned. Though it is slightly costlier than vinegar, it surely smells better than vinegar. For that reason alone, you might prefer using this combination for clearing the inks in the kitchen. Simply pour the mixture in the blocked drain, allow the chemical reaction to release the foam, and finally wash down with lots of hot water.

Boiling water

Clogs are often formed because of different oils and fats which solidify on becoming cold, and then stick to the pipes. You could get that fat melted by pouring some boiling water in the clogged pipe. If that fails to deliver the results, you may use either of the above mentioned mixture along with boiling water. However, be careful to pour straight to the drain, otherwise the plastic or porcelain could develop cracks.

What if none of above works?

If you are unable to clear the drain using the above mentioned chemicals, your next best option is to get it snaked. The above mentioned tricks work for clearing slight buildups in the drain pipes. If the obstruction is large and solid, these are not expected to work and, you need to utilize this tool called snake on your own, or seek help from a skilled technician.


By Erin J 
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8726939