Natural Drain Cleaner & Freshener

Keep drains clear and fresh-smelling with this simple natural solution. Great for maintenance and minor clogs.

Prep Time 2 minutes
Yield 1 application
Difficulty Easy
Cost $0.25

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Baking soda
  • 1/2 cup White vinegar
  • 4 cups Boiling water
  • 1/4 cup Salt (Optional, for extra scrubbing power)
Safe for: all drain types, septic systems, PVC pipes, metal pipes
Avoid on: nothing - safe for all plumbing

Why This Recipe Works

The fizzing reaction between baking soda and vinegar helps break up gunk clinging to pipe walls. Boiling water flushes away loosened debris and melts away grease buildup. Salt adds mild abrasive action. This is perfect for maintenance and mild clogs from soap and hair.

Instructions

  1. Boil water: Start heating water while you prepare other ingredients.

  2. Pour baking soda: Pour baking soda directly into the drain.

  3. Add salt if using: Pour salt on top of the baking soda.

  4. Add vinegar: Pour vinegar into the drain. It will fizz vigorously.

  5. Cover and wait: Cover the drain with a plate or wet cloth to keep the reaction in the pipes. Wait 15-30 minutes.

  6. Flush with boiling water: Pour boiling water slowly down the drain to flush everything away.

Tips & Variations

  • Weekly maintenance: Do this weekly to prevent clogs before they start.
  • Garbage disposals: Add lemon peels before the boiling water for a fresh scent.
  • Slow drains: Repeat 2-3 times for slow-draining sinks.
  • Hair clogs: This won’t dissolve hair - you’ll need to remove hair clogs manually first.

Safety Notes

  • Careful with boiling water: Pour slowly to avoid splashing.
  • Not for total blockages: This is for maintenance and minor slowdowns, not complete clogs.
  • PVC pipes: Boiling water is fine for occasional use, but very frequent use could soften PVC joints.
  • Cover the drain: The reaction is more effective when contained in the pipes.

Storage

No storage needed - use fresh ingredients each time.

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