Express.co.uk
·Aug 2026
I asked plumbing experts the best method to clear a drain — they all agreed
Seven plumbing and bathroom experts agree that boiling water should be the first step for clearing a blocked drain, poured slowly in stages and repeated if necessary. Most also recommend a short application of baking soda and white vinegar, although prolonged contact may harden debris and vinegar can corrode older metal pipes. Regular removal of hair and grime, drain covers and strainers can help prevent blockages. For stubborn clogs, plungers or drain snakes may help, while caustic soda and bleach should be used cautiously or avoided because they can damage pipes and create further problems. Other suggested remedies include salt and lemon juice, effervescent tablets, biological washing powder, vodka and Coca-Cola.