How to Use Bleach to Clean Out Sewer Drains

You can use bleach to clean a sewer drain.

Over time, debris and residue can cause your sewer drains to become clogged. While there are a variety of specialty products designed to clean sewer drains, you can effectively clean yours with the same bleach you use for laundering clothes. Be sure to use the recommended amount of bleach and take the appropriate safety precautions when cleaning out your sewer drains.

Things You'll Need

• Chlorine bleach
• Measuring cup
• Hot water

Instructions

1. Measure out 12 oz. of chlorine bleach and pour it into your sewer drain.

2. Allow the bleach to sit for 30 minutes to one hour. If your drain is clogged or draining slowly, you should allow the bleach to sit for at least 12 hours.

3. Flush the sewer drain with hot water to rinse away the bleach residue and any buildup in the pipe.

Tips & Warnings

• For an environmentally friendly alternative, try flushing your sewer drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

• Do not use bleach if your sewer drain runs into a septic tank. This may kill the bacteria in your septic tank and cause it to stop functioning properly.

• Wear gloves, eye goggles and a breathing mask to keep the bleach and its fumes from creating health problems.

• Do not mix bleach with other chemicals or cleaners. Doing so may result in a chemical that produces potentially fatal fumes.

References

• The Bryan Times; Hints From Heloise; Heloise Bowles; 1993
• Ask The Builder; Household Drain Maintenance; Tim Carter; 2008