CLOGGED SINK OR TUB DRAINS - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 

Did You Know? – The Science of Clearing Clogs

From old-fashioned soap-making chemistry to modern 'green' home remedies, there are a lot of ideas about how to clear a clogged drain. But not all methods are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of how different approaches really work — and why some are better suited to certain clogs.

Drano Granules – Soap-Making in Your Pipes

Drano Granules contain sodium hydroxide (lye) and aluminum flakes. When mixed with water, they create intense heat and a chemical reaction that turns fats and grease into soap (saponification). That’s why they’re effective in kitchen drains where grease is the main culprit.

Drano Gel – Dissolving Hair and Soap Scum

Drano Gel is a thick liquid that sinks through standing water and clings to clogs. It contains lye and bleach, which break down protein-based blockages like hair and soap scum. This makes it ideal for bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers.

Vinegar + Baking Soda – More Show Than Substance

Mixing baking soda and vinegar produces fizz, but chemically it’s just a neutralization reaction. The bubbles may loosen a little debris and help with odors, but the reaction quickly dies out, leaving only water and mild salt. It won’t dissolve stubborn grease or hair clogs.

Boiling Water – Simple, Safe, and Sometimes Effective

Pouring boiling water into a drain can melt and flush away fresh grease deposits. It’s safe and useful as a preventive measure, but on heavy grease clogs, it usually isn’t enough by itself. Once the water cools, the grease can re-solidify further down the line.

Enzyme Cleaners – Slow but Eco-Friendly

Enzyme and bacterial drain cleaners work by digesting organic material over time. They are safe and environmentally friendly, but very slow. They’re best used for maintenance and prevention, not urgent clogs.

The Takeaway

• Drano Granules = best for grease and fat clogs (kitchen drains).
• Drano Gel = best for hair and soap scum (bathroom drains).
• Vinegar + Baking Soda = mostly a myth, works only as a deodorizer.
• Boiling Water = good preventive step, limited for real clogs.
• Enzyme Cleaners = safe, but slow.

Different clogs need different chemistry — and sometimes, the old plumber’s snake is still the most reliable tool.

Household Bleach – A Misunderstood Cleaner

Straight household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is often poured into drains in hopes of clearing clogs, but its real effect is limited:

• On hair: Bleach is an oxidizer and can weaken keratin bonds, which is why it lightens hair color. In drains, however, it is too dilute to dissolve a hair clog. At best, it softens small strands.
• On grease: Bleach does not dissolve fats or oils. It may reduce odors by oxidizing organic residue, but it won’t clear a grease clog.
• Risks: Bleach can corrode pipes and rubber seals, and if mixed with ammonia or acids, it releases dangerous chlorine gas.

Bottom line: Bleach is useful as a disinfectant and deodorizer, but it is not a clog remover.