Safe Methods to Clear a Sink Drain

Many natural, non-toxic options are available for dislodging sink clogs.

There are many methods of clearing sink drains. Before there were chemical cleaners available for purchase through stores and other retail establishments, there were home remedies that relied on natural products often found within every home. These natural, "green" ingredients are still effective. In addition to natural cleaners, implements such as plungers and plumber's snakes can also clear a clogged sink drain.

Plunger

Plungers work well for clearing clogs in the sink drain that are near the drain trap and not located deep within the pipe. Most clogged drains are evidenced by standing water at the bottom of the sink. If there isn't any water accumulation, fill the sink with about 3 inches of water. Wipe petroleum jelly beneath the plunger's rim to aid in creating a tight seal between the plunger and the sink; a tighter seal will help increase the suction created by the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and push down on the handle, vigorously forcing the rubber plunger up and down. Pull the plunger abruptly away from the drain to create a gust of suction. Turn on the hot water to flush the clog down the pipe.

Plumber's Snake

A plumber's snake, also called a sewer snake or plumber's auger, is a long wire that is fed through the drain and down into the pipe to push the clog through the pipe. Remove the sink drain's cover or trap if the plumber's snake won't fit through the drain holes. Push the snake through the pipe until it hits the clog, turn it in different directions to break apart the debris and then run cold water through the drain. Sometimes fat run-off from cooking congeals and accumulates in kitchen sink pipes. Cold water allows the fat to remain solid so the snake can break it up while the water rinses it from the pipe.

Boiling Water

Flushing a clogged sink drain with boiling water alone may be sufficient to dislodge the clog in the drain or sink pipe. Use boiling water in conjunction with 1/2 cup salt or a plumber's snake for stubborn clogs.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar has long been used as a disinfectant and cleaner. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup white vinegar down the sink drain. Allow the ingredients to bubble within the drain and pipes for about 15 minutes. Pour about 2 quarts of boiling water down the drain to wash the clog away. This method is recommended for metal pipes only as boiling water may cause melting and other damage to plastic sink pipes. The Earth Easy website warns that mixing vinegar with chemical drain cleaners may produce hazardous fumes.

Borax

Borax, or sodium borate, is a non-toxic, natural, white mineral-based powder sold in grocery stores in the detergent department. Long used as a household and laundry cleaner, borax is useful in breaking up tough clogs. Pour 1/2 cup borax into the drain pipe or the standing water at the bottom of the sink and allow it to remain in the pipe or sink for about 15 minutes. Flush the drain or sink with boiling water until the clog clears. For stubborn clogs, pour 1 cup borax into the sink or sink drain and allow it to remain overnight. Plunge the drain if the water is still standing, and then flush the drain with boiling water.

References

• Handyman USA: How to Clear Clogged Drains
• Earth Easy: Non-Toxic Home Cleaning
• Eco-Cycle: Alternative Cleaners and Recipes