Baking Soda Cleaning Method for Hair Drain Clogs, Part 2

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over the initial steps involved with a simple home method for cleaning hair-related drain clogs. Instead of using potentially harmful chemical cleaners, this method involves only baking soda, vinegar and hot water, leaving your drains free of damage risks while cleaning them effectively.

At My Buddy the Plumber, we’re happy to offer drain cleaning services and expertise for all clogs and other blockage issues, including more severe concerns such as main sewer line repair that will require assistance from our plumbers. For minor clogs, however, these DIY methods are often effective. Here are some of the final steps to cleaning a drain using this method, plus some basics on an addition you can make to this process if the clog is stubborn and does not go away the first time.

Additional Water

At the end of part one, we had just finished pouring our baking soda and vinegar into the drain, noting the fizzing reaction that will take place when this is done. While this is happening and as the fizzing wears down, you’ll want to give the drain about five minutes to sit.

During this time, head back to the sink or stovetop and heat two more cups of water to their boiling point. These will be used momentarily.

Flushing and Draining

Now it’s time for the big test of whether this method worked. Pour your two new cups of boiling water down the drain and see how they flow – if they run down normally, you’ve solved the issue and can move on. If not, however, and they continue to drain slowly or not at all, we recommend repeating the process at least once to see if an additional attempt helps dislodge anything.

Salt Addition Method

One addition you may consider for further attempts on a stubborn clog is salt, which replaces vinegar from our earlier process. This is a method best completed in the evening before bed, as it involves leaving the drain to sit for several hours and overnight is often the ideal period. The basic steps:

• Pour a full cup of baking soda into the drain that’s clogged, as you would have before (hot water will not be used until the morning).
• Pour a half-cup of salt into the drain following the baking soda, then let this mixture sit for at least several hours and preferably an entire overnight period.
• Heat two cups of boiling water, then pour them into the drain and observe how well they drain. If they clear the clog and drain well, continue to pour hot tap water down the drain for a couple minutes.

For more on clearing hair and other drain clogs using simple household items, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at My Buddy the Plumber today.