How to Naturally Unclog a Sink Drain

Vinegar is the unsung hero of household duties, including unclogging sinks.

If you hate using toxic chemicals in your home and prefer a more natural way to handle home repairs, you may be distressed when your sink clogs. However, it's really a matter of simple science to unclog a sink without having to resort to a liquid toxin or even calling in a plumber. You may even already have the needed components in your home, so you won't be out a single penny.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 cup vinegar
• Washcloth or small towel
• Plunger
• Lemon or lemon juice

Instructions

1. Measure out the baking soda and pour it into the drain.

2. Pour the vinegar directly on to the baking soda, down the sink drain. The combination of the vinegar and baking soda causes a fizzing reaction that will work to eliminate the clog in the drain.

3. Place a rolled up washcloth or kitchen towel over the clogged drain so the baking soda and vinegar won't spew out of the sink. This will keep the unclogging efforts confined to the drain.

4. Turn the water on and make sure it's hot. Run it down the drain, rinsing the vinegar and baking soda away.

5. Check to see if the clog is still persisting. If it is, use a plunger to remove the rest of the clog, just as you would if you were plunging the toilet.

6. Squeeze a lemon or pour a bit of lemon juice down the drain to alleviate any stinky smells caused by the clog.

7. Repeat the process if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• This is only for gunge clogs. Not physical clogs.

• Don't use hot water. This will cause water to overflow and make a mess.

References

• USA Plumbing: How to Unclog a Drain and Septic Tank: Tips and Tricks
• Apartment Therapy: How To: Naturally Unclog The Bathroom Sink