A blocked sink can be a nightmare, but a plumbing expert claims a simple two-ingredient solution can clear it for pennies. Jason Croxford, Director at Gas & Water Pipelines, says the real issue lies deep in the pipes, not on the surface.
To tackle the problem, pour a cup of bicarbonate of soda down the plughole, followed by a cup of distilled white vinegar. Cover immediately with a stopper to contain the fizzing reaction. Croxford explains: 'That fizzing is exactly what you want to see. It's working to break down anything stuck inside the pipe.'
Once the fizzing stops, add washing-up liquid and warm water from a kettle (not boiling). Warm water helps flush everything through without damaging pipes. Croxford also advises cleaning dishwasher filters regularly and running a hot empty wash with a cup of vinegar in a bowl to prevent shared drain issues.
