Types of Natural Drain Cleaners

Dealing with a clogged drain can be a real hassle, but there's good news! You don't need to resort to harsh chemical drain cleaners to get the job done. Natural drain cleaners can be just as effective at clearing clogs, and they're much safer for your pipes, your health, and the environment.

This page explores some of the best natural drain cleaning solutions using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. We'll show you how to use baking soda, vinegar, boiling water, and other natural ingredients to clear your drains quickly and effectively. Plus, we'll share some tips on preventing clogs in the first place. 

So, say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to natural drain cleaning!

Why Choose Natural Drain Cleaners?

Before we dive into the specifics of each natural drain cleaning method, let's have a look at the reasons why opting for natural solutions is a smart choice for both your home and the environment.

♻️ Environmental Friendliness

Natural drain cleaners are typically biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally without harming the environment. Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, they don't contain harmful substances that can pollute waterways and harm wildlife. Choosing natural options helps protect our ecosystems and preserve our planet.

♻️ Safety for Your Pipes

Harsh chemical drain cleaners can be corrosive and may damage your pipes over time. They can weaken pipe materials, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Natural drain cleaners, on the other hand, are gentler on your plumbing system, reducing the risk of damage and extending the lifespan of your pipes.

♻️ Cost Effectiveness

Many natural drain cleaning solutions utilise common household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and salt, making them a budget friendly alternative to commercial drain cleaners. You can save money while effectively clearing your drains and protecting the environment.

♻️ Peace of Mind

Knowing that you're using safe and environmentally friendly products provides peace of mind. You can confidently tackle clogged drains without worrying about harming your family, your pets, or the planet.

By choosing natural drain cleaners, you're making a conscious decision to prioritise your health, your home, and the environment. Now, let's explore some of the most effective natural drain cleaning methods you can easily implement in your home.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

This classic combination is a powerhouse for clearing clogged drains. The chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) creates a fizzing action that helps to break down grease, hair, and other organic matter, effectively clearing the blockage.

Here's How To Use Baking Soda And Vinegar To Unclog Your Drain:

🧼 Clear the drain opening: Remove any visible debris or hair from the drain opening.

🧼 Pour baking soda: Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain.

🧼 Add vinegar: Follow with 1 cup of vinegar.

🧼 Let it fizz: Let the mixture fizz for 30 minutes. This fizzing action helps to loosen and break down the clog.

🧼 Flush with hot water: After 30 minutes, flush the drain with hot water for several minutes to clear away the loosened debris.

This simple and effective method is a great way to clear clogged drains naturally without resorting to harsh chemicals. It's safe for your pipes, your health, and the environment.

(Almost) Boiling Water

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Using (almost) boiling water is a surprisingly powerful way to clear minor drain clogs, especially those caused by grease buildup. The heat helps to melt and loosen the grease, allowing it to flow freely down the drain.

Here's How To Use Boiling Water To Unclog Your Drain:

🚰 Heat the water: Boil a kettle or pot of water. It doesn't need to be at a rolling boil, but very hot is best.

🚰 Pour carefully: Slowly and carefully pour the hot water down the drain. Be mindful to avoid splashing, as the hot water can cause burns.

🚰 Repeat if needed: For tougher clogs, you may need to repeat this process a couple of times.

This method is quick, easy, and often effective for minor clogs. It's a great first line of defense before trying other methods.

Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

Combining the cleaning power of lemon juice with the fizzing action of baking soda creates a potent natural drain cleaner. The citric acid in lemon juice helps to break down grease and grime, while the baking soda adds extra cleaning power and deodorizing action. Plus, it leaves your drain smelling fresh and clean!

Here's How To Use Lemon Juice And Baking Soda To Unclog Your Drain:

🍋 Pour baking soda: Start by pouring 1 cup of baking soda down the drain.

🍋 Add lemon juice: Follow with 1 cup of lemon juice. Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled lemon juice will also work.

🍋 Let it fizz: Allow the mixture to fizz for at least 30 minutes. The fizzing action helps to loosen and break down the clog.

🍋 Flush with hot water: After 30 minutes, flush the drain with hot water for several minutes to wash away the loosened debris.

This refreshing and effective method is a great way to naturally clean and deodorise your drains. It's safe for your pipes, your health, and the environment. For a stronger cleaning action, let the mixture sit for an hour or even overnight before flushing with hot water.

Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners offer a powerful yet gentle way to keep your drains clean and free flowing. These cleaners utilise natural enzymes to break down organic matter such as grease, hair, food particles, and soap scum, effectively preventing clogs and maintaining healthy drains.

Here's How To Use Enzyme Cleaners To Clean Your Drains

🦠 Choose a product: Select an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for drain cleaning. You can find these at most supermarkets, hardware stores, and online. Look for products with positive reviews and those that are safe for your type of plumbing system.

🦠 Follow the instructions: Carefully read and follow the instructions on the product label. Different enzyme cleaners may have slightly different application methods and recommended dwell times.

🦠 Apply the cleaner: Typically, you'll pour a measured amount of the enzyme cleaner down the drain. Some products may require you to add water, while others may be ready to use directly from the bottle.

🦠 Let it sit: Allow the enzyme cleaner to sit in the drain for the recommended time. This allows the enzymes to break down the organic matter. Times can vary from a few hours to overnight.

🦠 Flush with water: After letting it settle, flush the drain with hot water to rinse away the loosened debris.

Enzyme cleaners are a great option for maintaining healthy drains and preventing clogs naturally. They offer a safe, effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.

Preventing Clogged Drains

While natural drain cleaners are effective at clearing clogs, prevention is always the best approach. By taking proactive steps to minimise the buildup of debris in your drains, you can reduce the frequency of clogs and keep your plumbing system working efficiently Here are some practical tips to prevent clogged drains:

Watch What You Put Down the Drain

❌ Grease and Oil

❌ Hair

❌ Food Scraps

❌ Foreign Objects

Regular Drain Maintenance

✔️ Hot Water Flush

✔️ Baking Soda and Vinegar

✔️ Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

✔️ Enzyme Cleaners

Be Mindful of Your Plumbing System

Know Your Pipes: Understand the age and material of your pipes. Older pipes or those made of certain materials may be more susceptible to clogs.

Address Issues Promptly: If you notice slow draining or other signs of a potential clog, address it promptly before it becomes a major blockage.

By using these preventative measures regularly, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of clogged drains and keep your plumbing system healthy.

Still Clogged? Or Not Sure Where to Start?

If natural drain cleaners aren't doing the trick, or if you're unsure about the cause of your clog, don't hesitate to call in the experts. 

For specialist drain plumbers who can diagnose and resolve any drain issue, call Reline Solutions on 0403 355 550 or complete our online enquiry form. 

We'll get your drains flowing smoothly again in no time!