DIY Drain Cleaner Using Salt and Dish Soap

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of salt (table salt or coarse salt)
  • 1/4 cup of dish soap (preferably a grease-cutting variety)
  • Boiling water (about 4-6 cups)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Drain:
    • If your sink is backed up, try to remove any visible debris from the top of the drain. This will allow the cleaning solution to work more effectively.
  2. Pour Salt into the Drain:
    • Measure out about 1/2 cup of salt and slowly pour it directly into the clogged or slow-moving drain.
  3. Add Dish Soap:
    • Follow the salt with about 1/4 cup of dish soap. The soap will help break down grease and grime that could be contributing to the clog.
  4. Boil Water:
    • Boil 4-6 cups of water. Once it’s ready, carefully pour the boiling water down the drain over the salt and dish soap.
  5. Let It Sit:
    • Allow the solution to sit for at least 15-30 minutes. During this time, the salt and soap will work to dissolve grime and clear the blockage.
  6. Rinse with Hot Water:
    • After the wait, flush the drain with more hot tap water for a few minutes to help wash away the loosened material.

Repeat if Necessary:

  • If the clog isn’t fully cleared, you can repeat the process or follow it up with a plunger or drain snake for extra clearing power.

Why It Works:

  • Salt acts as an abrasive, helping to scrub and dislodge debris.
  • Dish soap cuts through grease and grime, which are often major contributors to clogs.
  • Boiling water melts and flushes away remaining grease and soap residue.

This simple trick can be an effective way to deal with minor drain clogs without harsh chemicals!

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