How To Unclog a Drain Without Toxic Chemicals

If the baking soda and vinegar combo doesn’t work, prepare to plunge the drain by putting on rubber gloves and removing anything from the area, like a basket strainer in a kitchen sink. If the drain has an overflow hole—or two, if it’s a compartment sink—you’ll need to block it with cleaning rags or duct tape.

Place the plunger over the clogged drain, and then fill the sink with enough water to nearly cover the plunger cup.

Push the handle down as far as you can, and then pull it back up forcefully. Repeat this pushing-pulling motion until the clog is cleared, or until you’ve tried for five minutes. If another drain reacts to this, the clog is in the main pipe and will need to be dealt with by a plumber.

Still clogged? See if the drainpipe has a plug or sink trap that can be removed. If so, put bucket or pan underneath to catch whatever gunk falls out when you open it. Use your snake to clear debris, and close the trap when you’re done.

If the clog persists or there’s no plug or trap, use a plumber’s snake, or auger. Insert the spring part of the snake into the drain as far as it will go. Crank the handle until you feel the spring hit a clog; then break it up by pushing and pulling while cranking. Be careful not to scratch the porcelain or metal as you work.

Once the pipe is unclogged, run scalding hot water down the drain to help dissolve any remaining goop and carefully clean the surrounding area and any equipment you used. But if you’ve tried everything and the drain is still backing up, it might be time to wave the white flag and, yes, call a plumber.

When your drain is finally free and clear, prevent future clogs by running the hot water for a few minutes — or flushing it with baking soda and vinegar — on a monthly basis.