Dealing with a clogged kitchen or bathroom drain can be quite annoying. However, your life should not be brought to a halt. Below, we’ve highlighted several tips on resolving this issue. Read on to find out, but before you proceed, remember to wear your rubber gloves.
Use Household Cleaning Items
When drain cleaning, first pour boiling water into the clogged drain. Then, add a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar. Close the drain with a plug as you wait for at least 30 minutes before pouring some more hot water. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar should corrode and dislodge the obstruction, freeing up your drain from any clogs. Also, you can combine an equal amount of salt and vinegar in a bowl before adding half part of lemon juice. Try using natural methods first, many times these simple household items can work wonders. Only use the heavy duty chemicals if you absolutely have to without another choice.
Use a Hanger, Closet Auger, or Drain Snake
If you choose to use a regular cloth hanger, you’ll need to straighten it out and form a small hook at the tip before putting it into use. Then, go ahead and fish around for any obstructions. If you’d like a tool that goes deeper and is more flexible, opt for a closet auger or a drain snake instead. Gently push the tool down the drain as you try to dislodge or snake out any clog. If you’re not using a disposable one, remember to thoroughly clean it after use.
Use a Wet and Dry Vacuum
Wet and dry vacuums unclog drains by sucking out any debris. Before you begin, tightly secure and seal the plughole. This ensures the whole process remains mess free. Afterward, turn the vacuum on at the strongest suction force on the liquid setting and place it over the hole in the plug. Any waste, especially that high up should be sucked out. A wet and dry vacuum should be able to help you out, hopefully it will be strong enough to remove the clog. If not, it may just loosen it, but that will still help you resolve the situation.
Clean the Drain Trap
Physically removing what is causing the blockage is also a great option, especially if the obstruction is positioned in the drain trap. The drain trap is the curved pipe positioned under your sink designed to collect any debris. Go ahead and place a bucket under the sink to seize any waste or excess water. Using a wrench, unfasten the nuts on the U-shaped pipe and empty its contents. Rinse off the drain trap before reconnecting it.
If the above methods fail to unclog your drain, consider contacting a professional plumber in your area. The assistance of a professional is a great idea when it comes to something you can’t manage to finish yourself. There is always time for this.