DIY: A Natural Way To Unclog Your Drain

I usually put off the unpleasant task of unclogging the bathroom sink until it is so clogged that the water sits inside the sink because it can no longer squeeze through the foul collection of dirt and hair (I don’t recommend that you wait this long). When this happens, I am tempted to run to the nearest store to buy some chemicals that will quickly flush all of the slime away. However, I always end up staying home because I do not want to buy any products that can be harmful for my family’s health (see Toxic House: Remove Endocrine Disruptors From Your Home).

Today, I went on EWG.org to do some research on a conventional drain cleaner that we previously used. According to the website, the product has high concerns for skin allergies and irritation. It has moderate concerns for the respiratory system and the environment. It also has some concerns for developmental/reproductive toxicity and cancer. The product received a grade of F, the lowest possible grade. Thanks to the good ol’ internet, I found a non-toxic, quick, easy, cheap and effective way to unclog my bathroom sink drain. All you need is a wire hanger, water and salt!

Step 1: Take off the drain cover.

Step 2: Untwist a wire hanger until you have a straight piece of long wire that will fit down the drain.

Step 3: Use the hanger as a hook to pull up hair and grime (warning: the gunk will be rather smelly and disgusting). Repeat as needed.

Step 4: Pour 1/2 cup of table salt (any kind) down the drain.

Step 5: Heat 8 cups of water until it is almost boiling.

Step 6: Pour the water down the drain.

This worked so well for me! If it does not work for you, click here to get more tips from brendid.com.

This post was originally published on March 23, 2019. It was updated on January 10, 2020.