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Drain Cleaning: Tips & Tricks

March 9, 2022

 

Having a clogged sink or drain can be such a pain for homeowners & renters.

Whether it be standing in your own filth in the shower while the water struggles to find a way down or, watching the daily ring of toothpaste/facial hair build up around your bathroom sink. It’s unpleasant to look at and unsanitary.

The good news is many of these common problems can be solved quickly & inexpensively by yourself within your home/apartment to help get you on the next daily task!

1 - Wire Coat Hangers

Everyone has cheap wire hangers that you get every visit to the dry cleaners, cut it (carefully) to create a long single arm to the hook to grab/move any debris that may be in the way. This hack is typically best used for getting hair out of the shower drain. Once the debris is removed run hot water through it to ensure that it’s fully cleared and ready for use again.

2 - Boiling Water

If you’re living in a home or apartment, I’m assuming you have access to a stovetop or microwave. Fill a pot or kettle to the top with water then heat to a boil. Make sure to begin pouring the water slowly this will be safer while also giving the water time to work its way in between the pours of the foreign object(s). Typically has good results and it’s free/easy.

3 - Drain Snake

A drain snake is a purchasable upgrade from the wire coat hanger. A drain snake is a flexible metal rope that has a spiral tip at the end to help you grab whatever may be causing the blockage. You manually rotate once the rope is fully inserted then back out slowly with the material. These snakes can range anywhere from $10-$50 at your local hardware store. Plus they are reusable which can be helpful for large households.

4 - Baking Soda & Lemon Juice

Utilizing some other common household items, baking soda, and lemon juice may also solve your issue. Other individuals may recommend vinegar, however, I prefer lemon juice as it smells better and still provide the results needed with the acidity reacting with the baking soda. You’ll need ½ cup of each ingredient then pour the mixture down the drain. Let it sit for one hour then slowly pour boiling water down the drain.

5 - Hire a Professional

Obviously, this isn’t a tip/hack. But some jobs are just meant to be handled by professionals. Never underestimate what things or objects pets along with children manage to accomplish. First-line of defense would be to connect with a Mavyn expert, www.mavyn.com, or download the Mavyn app here, available for iOS & Android. Then submit a ticket, the Mavyn app allows you to get a virtual assessment within minutes instead of waiting days for an onsite technician. I stress the importance of safety to notify any expert of what your previous unsuccessful tries may have been, as some mixture of chemicals can be dangerous to humans & the foundation piping. If the problem can’t be solved by a Mavyn expert they will recommend and send out an onsite technician to get your problem solved!

 

For more information, talk to one of our Plumbing Experts and get customized advice by submitting a request through one of the following: