10 Quick Tips for Cleaning Blocked Drains

When it comes to cleaning blocked drains there are several tried and tested means to unclog whatever it is that has got caught within your pipes.

Here are 10 quick tips for drainpipe cleaning, most of which you’re likely to own already.

1. Hire Drain Cleaning Experts

For an efficient drain cleaning service, why not consider hiring a professional? This may be a better route than doing it yourself, as it offers a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix. Professional drain cleaning companies can get to the heart of the issue which may not be as obvious as you originally thought. You’ll also save yourself time in attempting solutions that may not do anything to resolve the problem. 

Here at Cotswold Drainage, we are experts in dealing with all drainage issues of any size. Our 24/7 emergency drain cleaning service is on hand, promising both speed and professionalism. For a free quotation, contact a member of our friendly team today.

2. Use Boiling Water

Boiling water is a simple but effective method for unblocking drains, particularly those clogged with food particles, grease, or toiletries. Try pouring the water in short intervals to shift these blockages out of their position.

3. Chemical Cleaners

Chemical drain cleaning solutions are poured down drains to dislodge build-ups within pipes. It is generally recommended to use these either late at night or before heading out as they need several hours to break down whatever seems to have gotten stuck. These are typically most effective on grease and oil buildups as the chemicals within the solutions break down these substances. Chemical drain cleaners are available in most supermarkets or cleaning supply stores and usually work best in conjunction with a manual device.

4. Caustic Cleaners

Where your previous drainpipe cleaning efforts have gone unsuccessful, caustic drain cleaners might be the answer. These solutions offer a strong means to tackle those stubborn blockages. However, you should exercise caution with caustic cleaners as they can damage your drainage system when used incorrectly.

 5. White Vinegar and Baking Soda

 For a remedy already within the confines of your kitchen cabinet, take 1/3 of a cup of baking soda and 1/3 of a cup of white vinegar. That fizzing reaction that occurs will unclog your drains whilst tackling any odours present. Again, this should be left for a considerable period, either overnight or when out for the day. Then follow this up by flushing your drains with some hot or boiling water. 

6. Try Biological Cleaners

Biological cleaners differ from traditional chemical solutions as they contain no chemical substances, making them an environmentally friendly option and a safer alternative for cleaning your drains. They can be just as effective and even more so than other options available as they tackle not only the affected areas but work around your whole drainage system.

7. Plunger 

For most drainage issues, the problem can be remedied with a few simple pumps on a plunger. This is both an inexpensive and effective approach for blocked drainpipe issues. You can purchase standard drainpipe plungers or those specifically designed for things like toilets.

8. The Bent Wire Hanger 

Take a metal wire and straighten it out leaving the hook in place to latch onto obstructions lodged within your pipes. This method is useful for hair, tissue or other obstructions caught up within your drains but a little less useful for things like grease and oil. Then follow this up by pouring in some hot water.

9. Drain Snaking

If plungers or bent hangers aren't the solution to cleaning your blocked drains, why not try purchasing a drain snake? You can get these from various hardware stores or online retailers, and they come with a range of different features and specified uses. Again, you should follow this up with hot water to maximise your efforts, but the manufacturer’s guide should instruct you on how best to use this device.

10. Drain Excavation

Drain Excavation is performed by professional plumbers and blocked drainage specialists. This method repairs your whole drainage system when things like blockages, slow-running drains and unpleasant odours are common issues in your property. This is often a last resort when no other solution seems to be mitigating the issue.

Looking for a Drain Cleaning Solution? Contact the Drain Cleaning Experts

Now, all things considered, no two blocked drains are the same. What may work for your kitchen sink won't necessarily have the same effect on your blocked shower pipes. However, if in doubt contact specialists who offer professional drain cleaning services.

Here at Cotswold Drainage, our team of experts are on hand to help solve all your drainage issues. As providers of 24/7 emergency drain cleaning services, we’ll have your drainage system back to normal usage in no time.

Contact a member of the team today to talk through your options.