Unclog drains using 'natural' ingredients with 'infallible method' and no bleach

A recent social media post has shared a 'safe' cleaning hack that could keep drains clear of debris for smoother functioning every day.

Blocked sink with plunger

Easy method offers a natural way to clear a blockage (Image: Getty)

Clogged drains spell domestic disaster, often leaving homeowners grappling with ineffective sinks and facing the steep costs of harsh chemicals or professional help.

From the irritations of a slow-draining kitchen sink to a bathroom bogged down by hair, such blockages were usually just considered one of the inevitable hardships of running a home.

But thanks to one Facebook post, a 'safe and natural' cleaning tip could make all the difference.

The hack showcased by 'fantastic garden ideas' on a popular Facebook page dedicated to DIY home and garden decoration claims an 'infallible method', delighting its 763,000 fans.

This remarkably simple tactic uses two common household products to ensure your drains remain free-flowing.

Easy to administer without the need for nasty chemicals or expensive specialist equipment, this is an easy way to get those drains moving again.

baking soda and vinegar

The recipe for success: baking soda and vinegar (Image: Getty)

Baking soda and vinegar

According to the blog post: "Few combinations are as effective and environmentally friendly as baking soda and vinegar when it comes to drain maintenance."

Baking soda reacts with the vinegar to create carbon dioxide and water that bubbles through clogged-up grease and grime. Adding boiling water increases pressure in non-pressurized drainage pipes to help remove blockages. The baking soda can also help eliminate odours., especially if you add a few drops of lemon.

To clear your plug hole, begin by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. Let the ingredients fizz and bubble before finishing by flushing the drain with boiling water to wash away the residue.

The blog post also outlines three more eco-friendly solutions for clogged drains that you might wish you'd thought of first. They include:

Washing up liquid

According to the blog: "The same detergent that cuts through grease and grime on your dishes can also work wonders on clogged drains."

Simply pour a generous amount of dishwashing detergent down the affected drain and follow it up with hot water. This works because the surfactants in the washing-up liquid break down oils and food residues, allowing water to flow freely once again.

Washing up liquid

Washing up liquid cuts through grease and grime (Image: Getty)

Saline Solution with Sodium Chloride (Salt)

Salt, a pantry staple has a huge range of useful applications when it comes to keeping your home clean and clog-free.

To clear your drains using saline solution and salt you should " sprinkle approximately half a cup of salt down the clogged drain before flushing it with hot water. "

Apparently, it is the salt’s abrasive nature that helps dislodge stubborn deposits, while it can also draw out moisture which helps to break down organic matter hidden in the pipe work.

A plunger

A plunger can help to loosen debris (Image: Getty)

Use a plunger

This traditional method needs a little elbow grease but could be the most successful way of clearing your blockage.

"When faced with a particularly stubborn clog, don’t underestimate the power of the plunger," the blog says. "Whether it’s a sink or toilet drain, a few vigorous plunges can often dislodge the obstruction."

It also recommends: "Ensure you’re using the correct type of plunger for the task at hand, and maintain a steady, rhythmic motion."

If repeated attempts prove fruitless, it may be time to use the infallible baking soda and vinegar solution instead.

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?