How to clean a drain with salt and vinegar: 6 steps

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2023 Author: Martin Macey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 06:41

Having trouble, clogged drain and no drain cleaner on hand? Don't worry - you can make your own cleaner using iodized salt and vinegar. Combining the abrasiveness of salt with the cleaning power of vinegar should remove tough blockages. You can also add boiling water to the mixture, which will push the mixture through the pipes.

Steps

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 1

Step 1. Put 1 cup of iodized salt in a small bowl and add ½ cup of vinegar

Mix gently. It is only necessary for the salt to absorb the vinegar. You should get a homogeneous paste with a thick consistency.

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 2

Step 2. Add ½ cup of lemon juice

Although this step is optional, citric acid will help to clean the drain better. Stir until all ingredients are completely mixed.

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 3

Step 3. Pour the mixture directly into the drain

It will be in the form of a liquid gruel that will cover the drain and soak the blockage.

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 4

Step 4. Let the mixture remain inside the drain for about 15 minutes

If the blockage is particularly severe, leave the mixture for a longer time (maybe 30 minutes).

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 5

Step 5. Heat / boil water

Boil 2 cups of water in a kettle or saucepan on the stovetop. Bring water to boiling water before use.

Unclog a Drain with Salt and Vinegar Step 6

Step 6. Pour boiling water directly into the drain

Pour in slowly to avoid splashing water in the eyes or on the skin (scalding). Allow the water and mixture to bubble and work its way through the blockage.

Advice

Repeat the steps if the blockage is not removed.
These steps are safe for septic systems.
If necessary, perform a wire cleaning procedure to remove tufts of hair and other dirt-collecting obstructions.