A blocked drain can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. With a clogged shower drain or a smelly drain, it’s essential to have a quick and efficient solution. Thankfully, there are a variety of DIY methods that can help clear minor blockages and dissolve hair in shower drains while providing a smelly drain fix. This article will break down four easy DIY methods for tackling these common plumbing issues and answer some frequently asked questions.
1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: The Ultimate Duo
This powerful combination of baking soda and vinegar can work wonders in your drain. It’s a popular choice for how to dissolve hair in a shower drain and ensure a smelly drain fix.
Steps for using Baking Soda and Vinegar:
1. Pour a half cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow it up with a half cup of white vinegar.
3. Cover the drain with a wet cloth to contain the fizzing reaction.
4. Let this mixture work its magic for at least 30 minutes.
5. Finally, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris.
2. Boiling Water: The Quick and Simple Fix
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Boiling water can provide a quick and easy fix for a smelly drain and dissolve minor blockages.
Steps for using Boiling Water:
1. Boil a pot of water on your stovetop.
2. Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain.
3. Repeat this process if necessary to ensure a completely clear drain.
3. Dish Detergent and Hot Water: Heavy-Duty Grease Buster
For clogs caused by grease buildup, dish detergent with hot water can be an effective method for unclogging drains.
Steps for using Dish Detergent and Hot Water:
1. Mix one-quarter cup of dish detergent with two cups of water.
2. Boil the mixture on the stovetop.
3. Slowly pour the mixture down the drain.
4. Allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes to break down the grease.
5. Flush the drain with hot water to remove the loosened grease.
4. The Wet & Dry Vacuum Technique: Power Your Way Through Blockages
A wet and dry vacuum can be a valuable tool in clearing minor blockages, provided you have the right attachment.
Steps for using the Wet & Dry Vacuum:
1. Secure the hose to the drain using duct tape to create a tight seal.
2. Turn on the vacuum at its highest setting to suck out hair and debris from the drain.
3. Once the clog is cleared, rinse the drain with hot water to ensure it is completely clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my drains to prevent blockages?
A: While using a simple DIY method, such as boiling water, can help prevent future clogs, sometimes you may need to call a professional drain cleaner like Rapid Flush to use specialty equipment to more thoroughly clean out your drains.
Q: What should I avoid pouring down the drain to prevent clogs?
A: Avoid putting grease, oil, coffee grounds, and fibrous foods down the drain to prevent blockages. You could also regularly apply a specially formulated bacteria to proactively clean out your drains. We recommend BioPro as the best bacteria available on the market to clean your drains.
Q: Can I use these methods on a septic system?
A: Most DIY drain cleaning methods are septic-safe. However, AVOID using chemical drain cleaners for ALL drains, as they can damage your pipes and septic system.
