How to Clear Stubborn Drain Clogs

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Things You'll Need

  • Toilet plunger

  • Baking soda

  • Vinegar

Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Clogged drains happen in every household at one time or another. There are simple ways to unclog these stubborn drains without having to call on the services of an expensive plumber. A slow drain in your bathtub creates unsightly bathtub rings, and this means you have to clean it more often. Just using basic household products will keep most drains clear and allow the water to drain quickly from sinks and tubs.

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Step 1

Unclog your sink drain with a toilet plunger. This helpful stool is not just for the toilet bowl.

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Step 2

Fill the sink about halfway with warm water.

Step 3

Depress the plunger over the drain several times and then pull it off the drain. The water will probably drain quickly. If this does not help, repeat the action.

Step 4

Fill a saucepan with water and heat it to boiling. Often, boiling water is all that is needed to clear out any stubborn drain.

Step 5

Lift the pot with boiling water and carefully pour it down the drain. Once it has drained, run cool water to see if it is now draining properly.

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Step 6

Another approach is to sprinkle one cup of baking soda in your drain.

Step 7

Flush with three cups of boiling water. This will help the drain to clear of sludge and debris. Try running water down the drain again, to see if the problem is resolved.

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Step 8

Add one half cup of baking soda to the drain. Pour in a half-cup of white or cider vinegar. The boiling action will loosen the debris and unclog the drain. Cover the drain area and let the mixture work for a few hours and then flush with hot water. Run some water into the sink, it should drain quickly.

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