UK households are being urged to pour vinegar down their outdoor drains this October to prevent blockages caused by autumn rainfall. With autumn underway and winter approaching, many parts of the UK have experienced significant rainfall this week, raising the risk of flooding when intense rain meets clogged drains that can no longer handle the volume of rainwater.
Experts say there is no need to spend large amounts on costly drain cleaners if outdoor drains frequently become clogged. Using vinegar and baking soda can keep them functioning properly without constant unblocking, according to the Express.
Simple DIY solution recommended
Plumbing website Wolseley said: "Outside drains do many important jobs, handling everything from domestic waste to leaves and outdoor debris. This means that they can become easily blocked, but luckily drain unblocking is quite simple to do by yourself if a problem occurs."
The advice added: "You can also add grates and filters to your outside drains to stop garden debris from blocking them. These are very effective against leaves which can contribute significantly to blockages. You can also add small filters to your plugholes indoors to catch food waste and hairs from being flushed down and contributing to blockages."
Step-by-step instructions
Website Plumbcare provided instructions on how to use vinegar and baking soda to unblock a drain. It advised: "Mix two parts baking soda and one part salt and pour down the drain. Warm four parts vinegar and pour down on top of the baking soda and salt. It will bubble and fizz. Let it work for 15 minutes and then flush through with hot water."
Wolseley also recommended controlling what goes down drains, ensuring no cooking grease or coffee grounds are put directly into them, as these are common causes of blockages. If drains regularly block despite precautions, small amounts of baking soda, vinegar, or a chemical drain cleaner can help keep them clear for longer.
