On paper, a clogged drain is no big deal; most of us have probably dealt with a backed-up sink or slow-draining shower before. When a clog actually strikes, though, it quickly becomes more than just a nuisance. Clogged drains can cause anxiety, frustration, and especially confusion when there’s so many ways to take care of it. Homeowners may ask themselves questions like, why are there so many types of drain cleaner? What kind are you supposed to use? Will it damage my pipes if I choose the wrong one? Drano, drain snakes, plungers…it can be daunting to try and figure out which drain cleaner to use when there’s so many options available, but that’s what we’re here for! Let’s cover the different types of drain cleaner and when it’s best to use them.
1. Chemical Drain Cleaners
Most of the commonly known brands of drain cleaner are chemically based. These are fast-acting and easy to find, but they can be harsh on pipes if not used properly. There are three main types of chemical drain cleaners:
- Caustic (e.g., Drano): Great for grease, hair, and soap scum, but not ideal for older or plastic pipes.
- Oxidizing (e.g., Green Gobbler): Works on organic clogs like food and hair. Gentler than caustic.
- Acidic (usually professional use): Extremely powerful and melts through major blockages. WARNING: dangerous for DIY use!
Use chemical cleaners for: Kitchen and bathroom clogs
Avoid chemical cleaners if: You have old pipes or a septic system
2. Enzymatic Drain Cleaners
A more eco- and pipe-friendly option that’s still easy to find in stores, enzymatic drain cleaners are safe for all pipes, including septic systems! They are gentler on pipes than chemical cleaners and have less of an environmental impact. Do note that enzymatic drain cleaners won’t do much on mineral buildup or non-organic clogs, such as plastic.
- What they’re made of: Natural enzymes, such as proteases and amylases, and bacteria cultures.
- How they work: They break down organic matter like hair, food particles, and grease slowly over time.
- Commonly used brands: Green Gobbler, Bioda, and Instant Power are all commonly used enzymatic drain cleaners.
Use enzymatic cleaners for: Routine maintenance or clearing slow drains in kitchens and bathrooms.
Avoid enzymatic cleaners if: You have urgent clogs or complete blockages as these drain cleaners take hours (sometimes overnight) to work.
3. Mechanical Tools
Sometimes, the best solution to your clog isn’t a chemical – good old fashioned mechanical tools can work just as well!
- Plungers: Great for sinks and toilets. Simple suction can dislodge soft clogs quickly (Unsure of the best way to use a plunger? Check this out!)
- Drain Snakes/Drain Augers: Flexible tools that physically break through or pull out clogs, especially hair and debris.
- Zip-It Tools: Perfect for bathroom sink or tub drains. These plastic barbed tools can pull out hair gunk without taking anything apart.
- Hydro Jetting: A professional service that uses high-pressure water to clear stubborn or large-scale blockages, which is great for tree roots or backed-up sewer lines.
Use a mechanical tool for: A drain that’s completely backed up and water will not drain. Additionally, using a mechanical tool is great for blockages caused by foreign objects.
4. Natural Remedies
DIY lovers, rejoice! If you’re in a pinch, you can use some commonly found household items to tackle a clogged drain.
- Baking Soda + Vinegar: Pour baking soda down the drain, follow with vinegar, let it fizz for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Salt + Baking Soda + Hot Water: Salt can help scrub away residue, while boiling water melts grease. This method works best when allowed to sit overnight.
- Dish Soap + Hot Water: Pour a generous amount of dish soap down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with hot water to help greasy kitchen sink clogs.
Use DIY methods for: Maintenance and mild clogs. These DIY drain cleaners will not solve heavy clogs but can help keep drains running smoothly.
Avoid DIY methods if: You have a heavy clog or a grease clog
When to Call a Professional
How can you tell when over-the-counter drain cleaners and methods won’t do the trick for your clogged drain? Here are some signs it’s time to bring in a pro (Pro Tip: When you sign up for Quality Comfort’s Super Savings Plan, you receive 10% off plumbing repairs AND get a whole home plumbing inspection. Even better? If you call us out on a weekday to take care of a pesky clogged drain, there’s no $68 service call fee!):
- Multiple drains are backed up, as this can signal a main line problem
- You smell sewage or a persistent foul odor
- Water is coming up through other drains when you run water elsewhere
- You’ve tried chemical, natural, and mechanical methods with no luck
- Frequent clogs keep happening; this might point to an underlying issue like pipe damage or tree root intrusion
Drain cleaners can be incredibly helpful, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Knowing the type of clog you’re dealing with, choosing the right cleaner, and understanding your home’s plumbing will save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
If you’re in the Cincinnati area and need a plumber to tackle your clogged drain, let us help! Contact Quality Comfort Home Services at 513-620-4822 or book an appointment online!
