1. Boiling Water – The First Line of Defence

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. If your drain is slow-moving but not completely blocked, boiling water can break up grease, soap scum, and other build-up.

How to do it:

• Boil a kettle or pot of water.

• Carefully pour it down the drain in two or three stages, allowing a few seconds between each pour.

• If the blockage isn’t severe, this may be enough to clear it!

🚨 Note: Avoid using boiling water if you have PVC pipes, as extreme heat can weaken the plastic.

2. Baking Soda & Vinegar – The Classic Combo

This natural reaction creates a fizzing action that helps break down grime and debris.

How to do it:

• Pour 200g of baking soda down the drain.

• Follow with 250 of white vinegar.

• Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes (you’ll hear it fizzing as it works).

• Flush with hot water to clear away any remaining residue.

This method is great for routine maintenance as well as mild clogs.

3. Plunger Power – Not Just for Toilets

A plunger can be a highly effective way to dislodge stubborn blockages in sinks and tubs.

How to do it:

• Ensure there is enough water in the sink to cover the rubber part of the plunger.

• Place the plunger over the drain and create a tight seal.

• Pump up and down vigorously for about 30 seconds.

• Check if the water drains away; if not, repeat a few more times.

💡 Tip: Use a cup plunger (flat-bottomed) for sinks and a flange plunger (with an extended rubber lip) for toilets.

4. The Drain Snake (or Wire Coat Hanger Hack)

If you suspect hair or food debris is causing the blockage, a drain snake (or a simple wire coat hanger) can physically remove the obstruction.

How to do it:

• Insert the drain snake (or straightened coat hanger with a small hook at the end) into the drain.

• Gently twist and push to break up the clog or pull out debris.

• Flush the drain with hot water afterward.

🚨 Warning: Be careful not to force the tool too aggressively, as this could damage your pipes.

5. Salt & Hot Water – A Simple Grease-Buster

Salt can act as a mild abrasive to help break up grease and grime in your pipes.

How to do it:

• Pour 150g of salt down the drain.

• Follow with boiling water.

• Let it sit for 10 minutes, then flush with more hot water.

This method works especially well for kitchen sinks clogged with greasy residue.

6. Prevent Future Clogs – Keep Drains Flowing Freely

Once your drain is clear, here are some tips to prevent future blockages:

✅ Use drain strainers to catch food scraps and hair.

✅ Never pour grease or oil down the sink—dispose of it properly.

✅ Flush drains with hot water weekly to break down build-up.

✅ Use a baking soda & vinegar flush once a month as maintenance.