A blocked drain can be both annoying and inconvenient, but before you call a plumber, try a simple at-home trick that often does the trick - and it's totally eco-friendly!
Why is the sewer blocked?
In the kitchen, blockages are often due to grease and food residues getting stuck in the pipes, while hair and soap scum are common problems in the bathroom. Over time, these build up and block the flow.
Clearing the drain with bicarbonate of soda and vinegar
One of the most tried and tested housewife tips is to use bicarbonate of soda and vinegar, a combination that creates a chemical reaction that effectively dissolves grease and grime.
You will need:
- 1 dl bicarbonate of soda
- ½ dl vinegar
- Hot water
Do this:
- Pour the bicarbonate down the drain.
- Add the vinegar and let it bubble.
- After 5-10 minutes, rinse with hot water to remove the dirt.
This trick works well in both kitchens and bathrooms and is gentle on the pipes.
Suction cup - a classic
Another simple solution is to use a suction plug. It creates a pressure that helps to loosen the blockage.
Do this:
- Fill the sink or basin with water to cover the suction plug.
- Place the suction plug over the drain and pump up and down until you feel the stopper loosen.
This method is quick and often effective for shallower stops.
Prevent future stoppages
Once you have solved the problem, you naturally want to avoid it happening again. Here are some simple tips:
- Use a sieve in the sink and bathtub to catch food debris and hair.
- Rinse regularly with boiling water to dissolve fat.
- Never throw away fat in the sink - it solidifies and causes blockages.
When do you need help?
If none of these tricks work, the blockage may be deeper and a poorly placed blockage in the drain may require some creativity to resolve, but often the housewife's tip works. To avoid major problems, regular maintenance of the whole living environment, not just the drains, is a good idea. By keeping common areas clean with the help of stair cleaning reduces the risk of dirt and debris causing problems in the long run.
Fixing a drain blockage yourself doesn't have to be difficult or expensive - with these smart tips, you can solve the problem easily and quickly.
