If you suspect a hair clog, using an auger or snake is the best way to remove it. However, you must use the snake properly to avoid damaging your pipes.
Here’s how:
- Insert the metal tip of the snake into the drain. Turn the crank to feed the snake further down into your pipes.
- When the snake stops moving, you may have hit the clog. Twist the snake a bit to catch it.
- Slowly turn the crank in the other direction to extract the clog. If you don’t pull the clog out on the first attempt, try again.
Plungers can resolve many simple clogs, and they’re safe for your pipes. Just press the plunger firmly over the drain and push up and down for 20 seconds. The water should start bubbling, indicating that the sink clog has loosened.
You can also mix a cup of baking soda with an equal amount of vinegar. Pour it down the drain, then cover the drain for about five to 10 minutes. This should dissolve any obstruction in your pipes and push the clog through the drain.
Chemical vs. Natural Remedies
Chemical drain cleaners may not always work well for big clogs, despite their claims of quick results. Moreover, these cleaners pose serious safety risks.
Inhaling the vapors of drain cleaners or getting them in your eyes can result in serious health crises, requiring medical attention or even a trip to the emergency department. Moreover, homes with kids are at an increased risk of lethal poisoning from these substances.
Opting for natural remedies like baking soda, vinegar, or biodegradable drain cleaners presents a safer alternative. Not only are they safer for household use, but they are also more environmentally friendly.
Preventive Measures
To prevent clogged drains in the kitchen, don’t pour food down the drain that your garbage disposal can’t handle. If you’re unsure, check your disposal’s manual. Grease and foods that are stringy or starchy can clog your drains quickly. Make sure to take the proper steps to clean your drain.
In the bathroom, clean fallen hair out of the drain after every shower so it doesn’t have a chance to build up. If you don't do this, hair makes its way down into your pipes, where it gradually forms a large, tightly-packed ball.
Also, it's a good idea to brush your hair before showering, especially if you have a long mane. This way, you can dispose of loose hair in the trash instead of letting it wash down the drain.
Vinegar and baking soda can prevent buildup in your drains. Mix equal parts of each and pour the solution down your drains every few weeks.