Homeowners can take steps to remove minor clogs and keep pipes clean. Incorporating these into your home maintenance routine can reduce your drain cleaning service cost over the years. If you have a clog, we don’t recommend using store-bought drain cleaner. These contain harsh chemicals that aren’t great for the water supply and can harm pipes if used too frequently. Try these steps instead:
- Vinegar – White vinegar is an all-natural cleaner and, when used down the drain in small amounts, can help clean mineral buildup on the walls of pipes.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda – Putting a couple of tablespoons of baking soda in the drain, followed by white vinegar, produces a slight chemical reaction. The fizzing and bubbling action can help loosen buildup as it works its way down the drain. This also fights bad smells.
- Dish Liquid – Adding some dish liquid to your drain and letting it sit overnight can help break up grease that causes blockages. Flush the drain with hot water the next day.
- Plunger – Plungers provide the best results for blocks and can be used in just about any drain in the house, including sinks, tubs, and toilets.