Regular drain cleaning at home is one of the most effective ways to prevent clogs, unpleasant odors, and plumbing emergencies, but how often should you actually clean your drains? The answer depends on your house size, water usage habits, and whether you’ve had past issues with slow or clogged drains.
How Often Should You Clean Your Drains?
For most homes, it’s recommended to clean drains at least once every month. This helps prevent the buildup of grease, hair, soap scum, and other debris that can lead to clogs.
However, high-traffic areas like kitchen and bathroom sinks may require more frequent maintenance, preferably every 2 to 3 weeks. Regular attention keeps your pipes running smoothly and minimizes the risk of major blockages.
Tip: If your drains smell bad, gurgle, or drain slowly, it’s time for a cleaning—even if it hasn’t been a month.
How to Do Drain Cleaning: Step-by-Step
Wondering how to do drain cleaning effectively? Here’s a simple guide:
Step 1 – Boiling Water Flush
Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to break apart and loosen light buildup
Step 2 – Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pour ½ cup of baking soda, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
Step 3 – Use a Drain Snake
For tougher clogs, use a manual or motorized drain snake to remove hair or gunk lodged in the pipe.
Step 4 – Avoid Chemical Cleaners
Harsh chemicals can corrode pipes over time since they use a chemical reaction to break apart the clog.
Helpful Reading – Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing System
If the problem persists, it may be time to call in a professional. Please call Zeek Plumbing at (866) 635-0200 for all of your drain cleaning needs.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean drains and doing it regularly can save you from expensive plumbing repairs. Monthly drain cleaning at home using safe methods like hot water, vinegar, and baking soda will keep your pipes healthy and your water flowing freely.
For more expert tips, visit Mr. Plumber Indy’s guide.
FAQs
1. What’s the best homemade drain cleaner?
A mixture of baking soda and vinegar is one of the most effective and eco-friendly homemade drain cleaners. Follow it with hot water for best results.
2. Can you use Dawn and baking soda for drains?
Yes, mixing Dawn dish soap with baking soda can help break down grease and grime in kitchen drains. Pour it down, let it sit, and flush with hot water.
3. Should I call a plumber for clogged drain cleaning?
If you’ve tried home remedies and the drain is still slow or completely blocked, you should call a plumber for clogged drain cleaning. Professional tools can remove deep blockages safely. Call Zeek Plumbing & Mechanical at (886) 635-0200 to clear these blockages.
4. What do plumbers recommend for unclogging drains?
Plumbers often recommend using a drain snake, hydro-jetting, or enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic material without damaging your pipes.
5. How long does it take a plumber to clear a drain?
Most professional drain cleanings take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the clog, the location of the blockage, and the amount of locations that need to be snaked.
Ryan has been a part of the Zeek Plumbing team since 2019, and has lived in Randolph, NJ his entire life.
He takes pride in taking care of the towns, the families, and the areas he grew up in!
Ryan has been the Treasurer and is currently on the Membership committee of a local BNI Chapter based out of Morris County, NJ in the networking group, BNI Main Street.
