One of the most common problems every homeowner faces at some point is clogged drains. Smart are those who immediately start searching for the best ‘drain cleaning near me’ services as timely identification and cure will prevent long-term issues.
Why hire plumbers? Because they know how to clean and unclog dirty drains, that too without using harsh chemicals.
Wondering why chemical-based drain openers are bad for you and our environment. Here’s what you need to know…
Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous for kids
Chemical drain openers are a big no if you have kids at home. Having these products means your kids and pets are always exposed to toxic chemicals. You don’t want that.
No matter how hard you try, you cannot monitor children 24/7, considering they are explorers and scientists by birth. So, it’s definitely better to avoid keeping such toxic substances at home.
They cause pipe corrosion
Chemical drain openers can ruin and corrode your pipes. Because these cleaners depend on heat to remove dirt, they can make your pipes soft. This may even result in damaging your entire plumbing system.
They’re not always so effective
What you saw in commercials about chemical drain openers isn’t true. In fact, these chemical-based substances are not always effective in opening clogged drains.
For example, if your drains are clogged because of pipe damage, using these chemicals can make the situation even worse.
They’re not environmentally friendly
This one is huge. Chemical-based drain cleaners are not only bad for you, but they can also ruin it for everyone around you. How? Let us explain.
These chemical-based cleaners emit gases that blend with our air and water.
The result?
Unspeakable danger.
They emit toxic fumes
Many homeowners use drain openers with several other types of detergents and solutions. This may result in a chemical reaction caused by the mixing of different chemicals, ammonia, and bleaches.
These chemical reactions result in toxic fumes, which can be drastic for you and your loved one’s health.
While chemical drain cleaners are easy to use and inexpensive, and convenient, they can cause more harm than good.
So, what other alternatives can you try to make your drains clog-free and clean without using any chemicals? Let’s find out…
Safe Alternatives to Chemical Drain Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners are easy to use, inexpensive, and convenient, they can cause more harm than good.
So, what other alternatives can you try to make your drains clog-free and clean without using any chemicals? Let’s find out…
Use plungers
You can use plungers to unclog your messy sinks, tubs, and toilets. The only condition is, you need to know how to use them correctly.
Use a round-head plunger to unclog toilets. Also, you can use cup plungers to clean your sinks and tubs.
Create your own drain cleaner using common kitchen ingredients
Did you know you can create a DIY drain cleaning solution using ingredients from your own kitchen?
Not sure where to start? Here are 2 homemade drain cleaning solutions you can make any time using your pantry.
Water, baking soda, and vinegar
Pour a pot of boiling water into your drain. Take two cups of baking soda and dump it straight into your drain. Leave for 10-minutes. Now, pour half a cup of vinegar and a half cup of boiling water on top of the soda.
Cover the drain and pour another pot of boiling water after 10 minutes.
Salt, borax, and vinegar
Take borax, salt, and vinegar in equal quantities. Pour this mixture down your drain and rinse with boiling water.
If all else fails, don’t be afraid to call in a professional
If all else fails, it is better to call in professionals. Residential plumbers have the knowledge, and the required equipment to open drains using no chemicals. They usually use hydro jetting techniques and water pressure to unclog drains.
But if you’re doing it on your own, make sure to:
- keep your place ventilated
- never mix two different drain openers
- always use gloves and glasses to prevent your skin and eyes from coming into direct contact with such toxic chemicals
- keep drain cleaners away from children and pets
