How to Unclog and Keep Open a Drain

This is for minor to moderate clogs. Try this first. If it turns out to be a hard-core blockage, you are going to have to attack with a drain snake!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Alka-Seltzer Tablets
• Cup of White Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Hot Water
• Plunger

1. 
    
   Alka-Seltzer

   Drop three tablets of the Alka-Seltzer directly into the open drain.

2. 
    
   Vinegar

   Pour a cup of white vinegar in after them. Alka-Seltzer coupled with vinegar creates a acidic effervescent that eats and pushes at debris. Both ingredients contain natural acids that won't wear down your pipes over time.

3. 
    
   Lovely Water

   Wait a while until the bubbling dies down then flush with hot or boiling water. You can also use a plunger to help it along.

4. After, once every 3 month take 2 cups baking soda and 1 cup vinegar and repeat steps above. Baking Soda does not contain any acids so the concentration with the vinegar is low but effective enough to wash away minor debris. Plus it deodorizes the drain. If you want to just use Alka-Seltzer go ahead!

Tips & Warnings

• Baking Soda is the main ingredient in Alka-Seltzer. That's what cause the bubbling action.
• Using commercial drain cleaners over time will dissolve pipes as they contain caustic chemicals.
• If plunging, pick up any particles that come up so that it does not slide back into the drain.
• Be careful with the hot water!

[elyria]

on 2/7/2009 Great advice and helpful! I already tried it after I read it and it works!! 5* and recommended!

[Crabcakes]

on 2/2/2009 I love this idea, and it is environmentally correct! 5*, RR

[kaytay]

on 2/2/2009 Thanks for the advice! 5 STARS

[Biscuit4u]

on 2/1/2009 Very helpful article. Thanks

[makeithappen08]

on 1/30/2009 Wow, this is something else. I learned the ones you buy never work. 5.