How to Clean Sink Drains and Pipes

Clean sink drains and pipes with baking soda.

Sink drains and pipes need to be cleaned regularly, otherwise bacteria and odor will develop. Cleaning the sink and drain is easy with a few low-cost household items, instead of expensive drain cleaners found at the supermarket or local home improvement store.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Drain cover
• Boiling water

Instructions

1. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into the drain openings.

2. Pour 1/2 cup white vinegar into each drain opening. The combination of baking soda and vinegar will foam when mixed.

3. Cover the drains, and keep the covers in place for 10 minutes. The foam will clean residue from the pipe walls.

4. Remove the drain covers and pour a quart of boiling water down each drain opening. This will flush out the cleaning solution along with any removed buildup.

References

• Maryland Cooperative Extension; Alternatives for Household Products; Wanda MacLachlan; 1998