Calling a Plumber Is Expensive (Try These First)

A clogged drain is frustrating. Standing water in the shower. Slow-draining kitchen sink. Plumbers charge $150-300 for simple clogs. But most clogs clear with household items and basic tools. This guide walks you through 6 methods, from easiest to most aggressive.

Safety First: What NOT to Do

  • Do not pour boiling water down porcelain (cracks toilets/sinks)
  • Do not mix different chemical drain cleaners (creates toxic gas)
  • Do not use chemical cleaners if you will need to snake later (dangerous splashing)
  • Do not force anything – clogs clear with patience

Method 1: Boiling Water (For Grease Clogs – Kitchen Sinks)

Boil a full kettle of water. Pour directly down the drain in 2-3 stages (let hot water work between pours). This melts grease and soap buildup. Works best for kitchen sinks. Do not use on toilets or PVC pipes that cannot handle extreme heat.

Method 2: Baking Soda + Vinegar (The Classic)

Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down drain. Immediately pour 1 cup white vinegar. Cover drain with a plug or wet cloth (keeps reaction inside pipe). Wait 15 minutes. Flush with hot water. The chemical reaction creates foam that breaks up clogs. Safe for all pipes. Works best for organic clogs (hair, soap scum).

Method 3: Plunger (The Old Reliable)

Remove drain cover if possible. Fill sink/shower with enough water to cover plunger cup. Place plunger over drain, ensuring tight seal. Pump vigorously 10-15 times. Pull up quickly – suction often pulls clog loose. Repeat 3-5 times. For double sinks, seal the other drain with a wet cloth to focus pressure.

Method 4: Wire Coat Hanger (DIY Drain Snake)

Straighten a metal coat hanger. Bend a small hook at one end. Gently insert into drain. Pull out hair and debris. Do not force – you might push clog deeper. Dispose of pulled debris in trash (not back down sink). Repeat until nothing comes out.

Method 5: Dish Soap + Hot Water (For Grease Clogs)

Squeeze 1/4 cup dish soap down drain. Follow with boiling water. The soap breaks down grease, and hot water flushes it through. Works well for kitchen sink clogs from cooking grease. Do not pour grease down drains – collect in a can instead.

Method 6: Plumbers Snake/Auger (For Stubborn Clogs)

Buy a basic drain snake ($15-25 at hardware store). Insert into drain. Crank handle while pushing forward. When you hit resistance, you have found the clog. Crank while pulling back to hook debris. Pull out clog. Dispose of debris. Run hot water to flush.

When to Call a Plumber (No Shame in Professional Help)

  • Multiple drains clogged simultaneously (main line issue)
  • Water backs up from other drains when you flush toilet
  • Gurgling sounds from drains
  • Foul sewer smell from drains
  • You have tried everything and clog persists

Prevention: Keep Drains Clear

  • Use drain screens/strainers in showers and sinks
  • Never pour grease down drains (collect in jar, throw in trash)
  • Run hot water for 30 seconds after each use
  • Monthly: baking soda + vinegar treatment
  • Hair catches: clean shower drain screen weekly

What About Chemical Drain Cleaners?

Chemical cleaners (Drano, Liquid Plumber) work but have downsides: they damage pipes with repeated use, are dangerous if splashed (can cause blindness), create toxic fumes, do not remove hair clogs effectively (only dissolve organic matter), and cost more than natural methods. Use only as last resort before calling plumber.

Conclusion: You Can Fix Most Clogs Yourself

90% of household clogs clear with baking soda, vinegar, and a plunger. Start with the simplest method and work your way up. You will save $150-300 per clog. And you will feel capable the next time standing water appears in your shower.