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    10 Quick Tips for Cleaning Blocked Drains

    5th July 2023

    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.


    Get in touch

    Contact our friendly and professional team via form, phone or email for any drainage issues you may have.

    From blocked drains to septic tank repairs and replacements, we're here to help. We have over 25 years of experience and offer 24/7 emergency callouts.


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    Cotswold Drainage are a very professional and helpful company who give excellent service. They fitted and service our treatment unit, thank you.
    - andrew
    Having researched companies to install a sewage treatment plant for my house, I chose Cotswold Drainage. I have not been disappointed at any stage of the process. From the outset, communication has been exemplary, every person I met, in person or on the telephone, has been very polite, and took time to listen and answer our questions. The quality of the work done has been, to my untrained eye, of a very high standard. Disruption has been kept to a minimum and the area has been left very tidy, now waiting for grass seed to sprout! I had some further pipe work done separately from the septic tank installation, and again, it was a very straightforward process with minimal disruption. Well done Stuart and all at Cotswold Drainage. Many thanks.
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    I am very pleased with the service provided by Cotswold drains . My problem was solved very quickly and expertly by Adrian . The problem was ROOTS ! They were in the main drain pipe underground. Located by means of a camera. I am in Cheltenham and will certainly recommend Cotswold drains to anyone with drain problems . Thank you Adrian
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