Ditch vinegar to clean drains as 1 household item plumber recommends works in minutes
Clogged sinks can be a real pain, but this simple hack will clean them in minutes.
Sink drains frequently become blocked owing to the daily assault of food debris and soapy residues, demanding a powerful solution capable of cutting through stubborn greasy build-ups. Due to the acidic nature of grease, popular DIY cleaning remedies such as white vinegar simply won't do the job, as you require something with strong alkaline properties.
Daniel Smith from Cal's Plumbing has offered his expert insight on the subject, advising that while baking soda is a viable option thanks to its mild alkalinity, you'll find "much better success" with a higher-alkaline substance such as soda crystals. He said: "If baking soda and white vinegar do not work and you want a stronger DIY option, washing soda is the next best option." He went on to explain: "Sodium carbonate, sometimes known as washing soda, is a common item in cleaning household goods and an excellent do-it-yourself drain unclogging ingredient.
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"Its alkalinity is higher than baking soda's and is thus a more effective drain cleaner." With a pH level of 11, washing soda, or soda crystals, is particularly effective at dissolving grease, fat and other common culprits behind blocked drains.
This method provides a potent yet straightforward means of tackling blockages, surpassing the effectiveness of vinegar or baking soda. Furthermore, it serves as a natural alternative, protecting your sink from exposure to harsh chemicals.
To begin, fill and boil the kettle before pouring the hot water down the sink to help loosen any fat, slime or grime causing the blockage. Next, generously scatter soda crystals into the sink and pour a cupful of hot water down the drain.
The combination of heat and the alkaline pH of the washing soda should effectively break down the majority of greasy build-up.
Leave the solution to work on the blockage for a minimum of five minutes, though you can allow it to sit for up to 15 to 30 minutes if required.
Once the time has elapsed, refill the kettle and bring it back to the boil. Pour the boiling water down the drain once more to flush away any remaining debris.
Your sink should now be completely clear, with water draining freely and no unpleasant smells remaining. Soda crystals can also be applied regularly to maintain a clean, fresh-smelling drain.
Once the blockage has been cleared, it is essential to take preventative measures to avoid a recurrence. Most importantly, never dispose of grease, fat or oil down your kitchen sink. While it may seem harmless in liquid form, bear in mind that it solidifies as it cools. Keep an old tin can or sturdy cardboard box beside the sink to collect excess fats, which can then be disposed of in the bin.
Additionally, fit a sink guard over the plughole. This will prevent food particles from falling into the drain pipes and causing further blockages.
