Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[mrscleannw]

Hello badzy and Welcome to Mrs. Clean's Forum. Clogged drains are very frustrating and I recommend to start with the easiest and least toxic methods first. I would recommend first blocking the overflow and using a plunger. This usually forces whatever is blocking the pipe to be flushed out. Try this a few times and if it is unsuccessful then try using using baking Soda and Vinegar. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain first. Then pour in 1/2 cup white vinegar and cover the drain (if possible). Let the mix stand for a few minutes and then pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to flush it. The combination of baking soda and vinegar can break down fatty acids into soap and glycerin, allowing the clog to wash down the drain. DO NOT USE THIS METHOD AFTER ANY COMMERCIAL DRAIN OPENER HAS BEEN USED OR IS STILL PRESENT IN THE STANDING WATER.
If this is successful, use this for maintaining your drains once a month.
If you are still unsuccessful, you may want to check out other options on the following website: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/cloggeddrains
Best of luck,
Mrs. Clean

[geraldine]

I agree with the least toxic approach first and you advice was right on.I would like to make an emphasis on your formula to unclog the drain using baking soda and vinegar. For our non-professional friends who are reading please note how mrsclennw tells you how to first place baking soda then place the vinegarin drain, don't try to skip this step and mix them together before pouring down drain ,you'll have more than a clogged drain to worry about.Be safe and stick to the directions.

[topak]

Clogged bathroom and sinks are surely a headache. To avoid this, we should treat our drain systems with proper maintenance.

Drain cleaner should only be used according to the manufacturer's specifications, because improper use of these may damage skin, lungs or eyes. Strongly corrosive, drain cleaners are one of the most hazardous household products available to the public.