ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction: Clogged drains and slow pipes can be a common household headache, but you don’t always need a plumber to fix the issue. With a few natural ingredients, you can create a homemade solution that keeps your drains clear, saves you money, and is environmentally friendly. This DIY drain cleaner works wonders for everyday maintenance and minor blockages while reducing your reliance on harsh chemicals.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 cup hot water
1 lemon (optional, for fresh scent)
1/2 cup salt (optional, for stubborn clogs)
Directions:
Prepare the Drain: If there is standing water, try to remove as much as possible. This will allow the solution to reach the blockage directly.
Pour Baking Soda: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda directly down the drain. Baking soda acts as a natural scrubber, breaking up grime and residue.
Add Vinegar: Follow the baking soda with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. You’ll notice fizzing — this is the chemical reaction that helps dislodge buildup.
Let it Sit: Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes. This time allows the reaction to break down organic material clogging the pipes.
Flush with Hot Water: Boil a cup of water and carefully pour it down the drain after the fizzing stops. This helps wash away any remaining debris.
Use Lemon (Optional): For a fresh, clean scent, squeeze some lemon juice down the drain after cleaning.
For Tough Clogs: If the drain is still slow, pour 1/2 cup of salt down the drain, followed by the baking soda and vinegar, and let it sit longer before flushing with hot water.
Serving and Storage Tips: This homemade solution is best used right away to take advantage of the baking soda and vinegar reaction. You can repeat this process every month for maintenance. Store any leftover salt or vinegar in their original containers for future cleaning.
Variations:
ADVERTISEMENT
