How to Clean Clogged Drains with Home Remedies of Hydrogen Peroxide & Vinegar

Drains clog due to a buildup of sludge, hair and residue. Although there are many products available at stores that eat through and clear clogs, many of them contain chemicals which are not only environmentally unfriendly, but also dangerous if used with old or corroded pipes. Both hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are products you probably have lying around your home, which can help to clear a drain clog. These products are also environmentally friendly.

Things You'll Need

• 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda
• Vinegar

Instructions

Hydrogen Peroxide

1. Pour 1/4 cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide down the clogged drain. Allow the mixture to work into the clog for five minutes.

2. Place a plunger over the drain. Push the plunger downward in an attempt to remove the clog. Continue plunging for a couple of minutes, or until you see that the clogged has cleared, due to the draining water.

3. Pour another 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide down the drain. Allow the mixture to work into the clog for 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Pour 2 cups of boiling hot water down the drain. The hot water helps to move any leftover sludge or buildup from the drain. If the water drains, the clog has been cleared. If the water does not drain, repeat the process.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

1. Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 2 to 3 cups of boiling water. Allow the mixture to sit for one minute.

2. Pour 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. You may see bubbling as the baking soda interacts with the vinegar. This is normal and not harmful. Wait 5 minutes.

3. Pour 2 cups of hot water down the drain. If it drains, the clog has been cleared. If it does not drain, repeat the process up to two more times.

References

• Care2: Clearing Clogged Drains
• Annie Appleseed Project: Creating Non Toxic Cleaning Prods