Home Remedy to Unclog Drain
Clogged drains are among life's little aggravations. However, when a drain is clogged, a quick fix is needed. There are plenty of products on the market for unclogging drains, but the combination of expense and toxicity render them somewhat unappealing. There are a couple of home remedies that are safe and inexpensive, and you probably have the ingredients on your shelves already. Does this Spark an idea?
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Causes
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Bits of food, debris, grease, hair and faulty or old pipes are the most common causes of clogged drains. Regardless of the cause, it's important to be ready to solve problems when they arise. These homemade concoctions should have your drain unclogged within a relatively short period of time. And best of all, you won't have to call a plumber!
Mild Clogs
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If water still goes down the drain, but at an obviously slowed rate, you probably have a mild clog that will only get worse with time. Treat it now before it becomes even more troublesome. This is done simply by measuring 1/2 cup of baking soda and pouring it into the drain, then measuring 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and pouring that in as well. This should be followed closely by covering the drain loosely with the drain cover. (The reaction between the vinegar and baking soda may blow the cover off.)
After leaving the drain unused for two to three hours, the clog should be broken.
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Grease Clogs
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If you've been dumping grease down the drain on a regular basis, it is safe to assume that grease is at least part of the problem. By filling your tea kettle and heating water to boiling, along with measuring 1/2 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of baking soda, and pouring each down the drain, you will create a homemade remedy that should unclog the drain within a few hours or overnight at the longest.
Tough Clogs
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If the drain is completely clogged; meaning water is pooled and won't go down, you may be able to unclog it without caustic chemicals. One cup of salt, 1 cup of baking soda, and 1/4 cup of cream of tartar mixed together in a clean glass receptacle creates a home remedy that can penetrate tough clogs. You may need to use the mixture several times for complete success.
Prevention/Solution
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A combination of hydrogen peroxide and boiling water not only unclogs drains, but helps prevent them from becoming clogged in the first place. The churning action of the peroxide combined with the hot water provides both action and heat--two good factors in unclogging drains.
Benefits
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These home remedies for unclogging drains are well worth your time and effort.In addition to saving money and being more environmentally friendly, they help prevent the corrosion that can be caused by harsh chemical products.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Apartment Therapy
