How to Make Effective Drain Cleaner at Home

Whether it’s in the sink, shower, or tub, a slow or clogged drain can add plenty of frustration to your daily routine. The good news? You don’t always need to rely on harsh chemicals or a plumber’s visit to get things flowing again. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade drain cleaner that’s safe, eco-friendly, and easy to use–and will help prevent more serious clogs down the road. Let’s dive into when and how to clean your drains at home.

When Should I Clean My Sink Drains?

Drains don’t need attention every day, but there are several clear signs that it’s time to take action:

• Slow Drainage: If water is taking its sweet time to go down the drain, a clog might be forming.
• Unpleasant Odors: Funky smells often mean buildup of grease, food, or other debris.
• Gurgling Sounds: That bubbling noise isn’t normal—it could mean a blockage is brewing!

Even if you’re not dealing with these issues, regular maintenance can help prevent bigger problems. A monthly clean with a gentle homemade solution can save you from future headaches.

How Effective is Homemade Drain Cleaner?

Homemade drain cleaners are an excellent first step. They’re free from the harsh chemicals often found in store-bought cleaners, which can sometimes damage your pipes. For minor clogs caused by grease, soap scum, or food particles, they often do the trick.

That said, they have their limits. Severe blockages, like a tree root in your line or years of built-up grime, usually require professional-grade solutions. And let’s face it: sometimes, the fastest fix is calling a professional plumber who has the tools and expertise to handle the job right the first time.

How to Make Your Own Drain Cleaner at Home

Here are five simple and effective recipes for homemade drain cleaners, each using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar
• Boiling water

How to Make and Use

1. Pour the baking soda directly into the drain.
2. Slowly add the vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble—that’s normal!
3. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Flush the drain with boiling water to clear the loosened debris.

2. Salt and Baking Soda

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup salt
• Boiling water

How to Make and Use

1. Mix the baking soda and salt in a bowl.
2. Pour the mixture down the drain.
3. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
4. Flush with boiling water.

3. Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

How to Make and Use

1. Sprinkle the baking soda into the drain.
2. Pour the lemon juice over it (Don’t be alarmed by the fizzing!)
3. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then flush with warm water.

4. Dish Soap and Hot Water

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon dish soap
• Boiling water

How to Make and Use

1. Squeeze the dish soap directly into the drain.
2. Follow with a kettle full of boiling water.
3. Repeat as needed for greasy clogs.

5. Borax, Salt, and Vinegar

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup borax
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• Boiling water

How to Make and Use

1. Combine the borax and salt, and pour mixture into the drain.
2. Add the vinegar, and let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Flush with boiling water to finish the job.

Professional Drain Cleaning in Northern Virginia

Ready to say goodbye to clogged drains? At Kiddco Plumbing, we specialize in safe and effective drain cleaning to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape. Contact us today to schedule your professional drain cleaning service.