Simple DIY Ways to Fix a Clogged Drain

A clogged drain can slow down your daily routine, cause bad odors, and, if ignored, lead to costly plumbing repairs. The good news? Many minor clogs can be cleared with a few simple DIY methods before you need to call a plumber.

Here’s a breakdown of the easiest and most effective ways to get your drains flowing freely again.

1. Use Boiling Water

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.

• Boil a full kettle of water.

• Slowly pour it down the drain in two or three stages, allowing the hot water to work between each pour. This works best for grease or soap buildup, but may not be enough for hair or large debris.

2. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural solution can help break down minor clogs.

• Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain.

• Follow with ½ cup of vinegar.

• Cover the drain and wait 10–15 minutes.

• Rinse with hot water.

The fizzing reaction helps loosen buildup and deodorizes your pipes.

3. Use a Plunger

A plunger isn’t just for toilets; it works on sink and tub drains too.

• Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the rubber part of the plunger.

• Place the plunger over the drain and push firmly several times.

• Lift quickly to see if the water drains away.

4. Remove Hair or Debris by Hand

If the clog is near the surface, sometimes you can clear it manually.

• Wear rubber gloves.

• Use a bent wire hanger or a small drain snake to pull out hair or debris.

5. Try a Drain Snake or Auger

For deeper clogs, a drain snake can help break them apart or pull them out. These are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried these methods and your drain is still slow or clogged, it might be a sign of a bigger problem, like a blockage deeper in your plumbing system. In that case, a professional plumber can use specialized tools, like a water jetter, to clear the line completely.

Regular maintenance, like using drain strainers and avoiding pouring grease down the sink, can help prevent clogs in the first place.

Call Vertical Plumbing at (480) 577-8720