Many heavily marketed products for drain cleaning are not safe for your drains and sewer lines. These products could end up hurting your plumbing system and your wallet more than they help. In fact, if you’re leaning towards one of these products instead of calling a plumber to unclog your drain just because it’s cheaper, we advise you to think about the long-term effects.
You may think you’re getting a bargain or using a time-saving solution, but don’t fall for it. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Chemicals in drain cleaners have high toxicity levels, and their fumes can linger long after you’ve poured them down the drain. Not only are they dangerous for you to inhale, but also your children and your pets.
- The most popular ingredient in drain cleaners is hydrochloric acid, which can eat away at your pipes or ruin your expensive kitchen and bathroom finishes.
Drain cleaners are harmful to the environment.
Unclog Drains in Your Kitchen & Bathroom the Eco Way Try one of these safe ways to unclog your drain before calling in the experts for help. Avoid the chemical cleaner short cut, and instead use these more natural drain cleaners that are friendlier to your plumbing, your family, your pets and the environment.
1. Start with a Plunger
They make plungers for more than toilets. Check your local hardware store for a sink or shower plunger. The suction from the plunger may force your clog away.
2. Add Baking Soda
If the plunger cannot manage the job, or only helps a little, try adding baking soda. A couple cups of baking soda followed by some hot water can help to break up the clog.
3. Top it Off with Vinegar
Baking soda combined with vinegar is a powerful, yet safe home cleaner. First, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain. Second, pour half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Add a squirt of lemon juice or some hot water for an extra kick.
WARNING: If you try this method, its extremely important that you don’t try using a drain cleaner afterwards. There could be reactions between the baking soda, vinegar and chemicals in the cleaner.
If you’ve tried a combination of baking soda, vinegar, lemon and hot water and your tub, shower or sink is still clogged, it’s time to call a plumber to discuss drain and sewer line cleaning.