Anyone with a blocked plug hole can try a £1 household solution to unblock drains without calling a plumber. With 1,900 average monthly UK searches for 'how to unblock a shower drain', it's a widespread problem that numerous households encounter.
Simple £1 Solution to Unblock Drains
Brian Toward, CEO of bathroom retailer Wholesale Domestic, suggests using two household products that can be purchased for approximately £1 at most supermarkets. He explains that, combined, they produce a chemical reaction that generates pressure and helps break down any debris maintaining the blockage.
He recommends baking soda and white vinegar. Both products can be acquired together from Tesco, for example, for as little as £1.10. This straightforward, economical method could help households avoid plumber call-outs.
Why This Method Works
Obstructed shower drains are among the most frequent domestic plumbing problems. The typical cost of calling a plumber to clear a shower drain starts at £70 or more. With the cost-of-living crisis ongoing, many households are seeking more affordable DIY solutions.
According to Brian Toward, by utilising two everyday kitchen ingredients and a kettle, homeowners can avoid call-out charges while keeping their bathrooms free of harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unblock Drains
Step 1: Add Baking Soda
Brian explains: "Take roughly half a cup of standard baking soda and pour it directly down the plughole. If you have a smaller drain opening, you might find it helpful to use a funnel to make sure the powder goes straight down into the pipe rather than sitting on the surface of your shower tray."
Step 2: Pour in White Vinegar
He added: "Pour half a cup of white vinegar down the drain, right on top of the baking soda you just added, and you'll immediately hear it start to fizz and bubble. This chemical reaction creates a buildup of carbon dioxide gas, which expands inside the pipe, building pressure that helps to dislodge and loosen any grime that's holding the blockage together."
Step 3: Leave It to Work
"Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes," Brian explains. "If you've got the time, a couple of hours or even overnight will give you much better results for more stubborn blockages. If you have a plug or drain cover, pop it back in to force the fizzing reaction downwards."
Step 4: Flush with Boiling Water
For the final step, he said: "Once the time's up, boil your kettle and carefully pour the hot water straight down the drain. The heat will wash away the loosened grime and flush the baking soda mixture through your system, leaving your pipes clear and smelling fresh."
What Causes Drains at Home to Smell and Become Blocked?
Regular use of kitchen and bathroom sinks leads to materials that easily adhere to the plumbing walls. One major reason for blockages is pouring cooking oils or fats down the kitchen sink. When these substances cool, they harden inside the pipes and snag other bits of food that pass by.
Even small leftover pieces can become trapped in the pipes. When this organic matter remains in a damp environment, it breaks down and emits a foul, decaying odour. In bathrooms, hair strands combine with the sticky residue from soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste. This creates dense, fibrous clogs that retain water and promote rapid bacterial growth.
