Experts at Wickes have advised UK households to pour bicarbonate of soda down their drains to tackle a common household issue: clogged drains.
Wickes says: "Having a clogged drain can cause all kinds of issues when using your sinks or showers at home. Whether it's water pooling around your ankles in the shower or a kitchen sink that refuses to empty, it's an annoyance you can do without."
"Thankfully, you don't always need to call in a professional right away. We have a range of drain unblocking solutions that you can carry out yourself, some just using basic household items. All you really need is bicarbonate of soda, vinegar, and some boiling water in a jug."
How to clear a minor blockage
Wickes recommends clearing minor blockages by pouring 240ml of boiling water mixed with 240ml vinegar and 120g bicarbonate of soda down the plughole. The reaction naturally loosens organic matter, making it a helpful first step before considering chemical drain openers or calling for professional plumbing support.
For standing water or severe clogs, physical tools like an adjustable drain coil or a plunger are more effective than liquid solutions, it adds.
Preventing future build-up
To prevent future build-up, households can install drain guards to catch hair and food waste, and avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink. Clear Stream Drainage Solutions says that for most homes, there is no need to have drains professionally cleaned at a specific interval.
However, an annual drain inspection or preventative clean can be worthwhile for properties that experience recurring blockages or have a higher risk of drainage problems. Households who may want to consider professional drain cleaning may include those with recurring drainage problems or those with older properties.
Using bicarbonate of soda is an effective way to clean drains due to it being an eco-friendly method that safely tackles minor clogs caused by hair, grease, soap and food debris. By adding this simple step to a cleaning routine, drains can stay free from blockages.
