How to Unclog a Drain at Home
A clogged drain is one of those problems that sneaks up on you. One day the water drains fine, the next you’re standing in a puddle in the shower. The good news: most clogs are DIY-friendly if you catch them early.
Start With the Simplest Fix
Before you buy anything or call a plumber, try pouring a kettle of boiling water straight down the drain. This works surprisingly well on grease and soap-scum buildup. Do it in two or three stages, waiting a few seconds between each pour.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
If the hot water doesn’t do it, follow up with half a cup of baking soda and then half a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain so the fizzing action goes down instead of back up. Wait 15 minutes, then flush with hot water again.
Use a Drain Snake
For tougher clogs — hair, soap, or debris deeper in the pipe — a manual drain snake (also called a drain auger) is your best friend. You can find one at any hardware store for $15–$30. Feed it into the drain, turn the handle clockwise as you push, and pull back slowly when you feel resistance.
When to Call a Plumber
If multiple drains are slow at the same time, that’s usually a sign of a blockage in the main line — not something a plunger will fix. Call a licensed plumber at that point. Also call a pro if you notice gurgling sounds from other fixtures when you run water; that points to a venting issue.
Most single-drain clogs, though? You’ve got this.