So, you’re facing a clogged drain but don’t worry, you don’t need to call a plumbing team right away, there are a few tricks available to you, and none are terribly expensive. Professional help is always advised, but it doesn’t always have to be your first resort. If you think the clog is minimal, try out these five clogged drain hacks.

Hack One: Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

It’s a strange mix, but it works. Mix one-third cup of vinegar and one-third cup of baking soda. The mixture will fizz, but it’s safe. Pour it down the drain, and let it go to work. The mixture will degrade old hair, gunk, and grime. Plus, it’s cheap to concoct!

Hack Two: Use Boiling Water

If you’re really in a bind, consider pouring boiling water down the drain. Sometimes, you can’t get your hands-on cleaning products, but very hot water can do the trick. Once it’s reached a boiling point, dump it slowly down the drain. Usually, this will unclog any old materials—especially anything grease-related.

Hack Three: Use a Coat Hanger

A coat hanger is, strangely enough, a great makeshift gunk removal device. Take a regular wire coat hanger, straighten it out and bend its end into a small hook. Insert it into your drain hole, and start “fishing” with it. Remove any gunk slowly, and set it aside. Repeat the process as necessary.

Hack Four: Use a Plunger

We know: Using a plunger isn’t exactly a hack, but it’s worth an honorable mention. Make sure your plunger has a cup at the end, as these cups are made specifically for sink and bathtub drains. Make sure you’re gentle and plunge out any unwanted material.

Hack Five: Use a Plastic Bottle

If you don’t have a plunger, fear not: You can make a de-clogger out of a plastic bottle. Simply cut it, and insert the open end over the drain. Press against the bottle’s body, and pretend it’s a suction plunger. You’d be surprised by the power a single plastic bottle has.

Again, don’t be afraid to contact your local residential septic provider. Drain cleaning is tough work, and it isn’t always doable alone. Safe, effective septic inspection—or even basic drain inspection—can solve most of your problems. If a clog is really bad, consider professional help over using a high-grade drain cleaner. While these cleaners are effective, they can severely damage your pipe’s interior. Don’t hesitate to get your septic inspected either. Give us a call at 320-983-2447 to schedule your Septic Check today!