It can be argued that commercial drain cleaners are some of the nastier chemicals in your home cleaning arsenal – laced with warnings and accompanied by a host of horror stories, there’s plenty of reason to worry when stashing a bottle of the stuff under your sink. Obviously, these chemicals can’t be any easier on the environment than they are on our plumbing, so using them not only comes with worry but a healthy heap of eco-related guilt. Tell the old stand bys to shove off with some great eco-friendly methods that will keep your drains clean without all the worry.
Rely On Yourself
While the household cleaning industry wants us convinced that the only way to remove a clog is to burn through it, the truth is that a lot of simple, everyday items can remove the gunk. Before investing in high priced options, try a plunger. Often effective on more than just toilets, they can push out a clog with just a little bit of elbow grease. Plumber’s snakes are certainly an option, though only professionals should attempt to work them. Instead, look on the shelves of your local health food store for some bacteria-based enzyme cleaners that will eat the clog free of your pipe without eating everything else.
Make It Yourself
Of course, a lot of people don’t realize that the answer might be as simple as a cup of baking soda down the drain. Chase it with three cups of boiling water and you’ve got an all natural alkaline solution that will loosen a lot of grime. If the drain is already completely clogged, try this same method with washing soda first. Washing soda, or sodium carbonate, is in the same family as baking soda, but is even more alkaline. There are no fumes to worry about, but wearing gloves isn’t optional. It will remove wax from floors, cut grease, and yes, unclog drains without too many problems. If none of that works, try the old science experiment route of vinegar and baking soda.
Congratulate Yourself
These methods, when done properly and combined with regular drain maintenance, can keep your drains as clear as any over the counter household cleaner – without all the nasty additives. Be good to your environment and have some added peace of mind – steer clear of the traditional products and try to fight plumbing woes with a bit more time and some standard baking soda.
