6 items to clean drains ahead of ‘summer stink’ – including vinegar

Ahead of the warmer weather, homeowners are being urged to inspect and clean their drains to avoid unpleasant odours infiltrating their homes.

Many people often take to social media for advice on how to clean their household drains, and now the home and shower specialists at Vidalux.co.uk have revealed six cost-effective and unconventional methods to spruce them up. 

Over time, drains can become blocked due to accumulations of hair, soap residue, and product build-up. While slow drainage is often a clear indicator of a blockage, some obstructions can go unnoticed.

As temperatures rise, these blockages can emit foul odours, hence the experts’ advice for Brits to refresh their drains before this occurs.

Andy Ellis, a shower and bathroom expert at Vidalux.co.uk, stated: “No one wants a foul smell entering their home which is why it’s worth giving your drains a refresh as we head into spring.”

He added: “Unknown blockages can start to smell when the weather warms up and the longer you leave them, the more damage they’re doing to pipework – which could leave you with an even bigger and more expensive problem.”

He suggested simple and effective ways to unclog drains using household items like salt and white vinegar, and even indigestion tablets and vodka to help unblock and neutralise any odours!

Here are six inexpensive and unusual hacks for cleaning the drains.

Boiling water

Pouring boiling water down drains is a straightforward and effective trick to tackle minor drain blockages by melting and loosening any grease or grime in the pipes. However, it’s worth noting that this method is only suitable for minor clogs; more persistent ones will require stronger solutions.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

These household cleaning essentials are highly effective when used on drains. When combined, they create a fizzing reaction that can help dissolve blockages and build-up.

This method is particularly useful for dealing with clogs resulting from everyday use, such as hair, grease, and other debris. For optimal results, pour the baking soda into the drain first, followed by the vinegar, cover it, and let it sit for approximately 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing it away with hot water.

Effervescent Indigestion Tablets

Much like white vinegar and baking soda, the fizzy reaction from effervescent indigestion tablets can aid in dislodging debris in blocked drains. Drop several tablets down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar.

Allow it to sit until the fizzing ceases, then rinse the solution away with hot water.

Salt

Salt can serve as a gentle abrasive that helps break down grease and debris. Simply pour salt down the drain, followed by boiling water, wait for about 15 minutes, then pour more boiling water down the drain to flush the salt away.

Salt can also be combined with baking soda and white vinegar for tackling more stubborn clogs.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice, with its acidic properties, is another excellent solution for tackling blocked drains. It also helps to neutralise any unpleasant smells, leaving a fresh citrus aroma in its wake.

For added potency, mix it with baking soda and pour the concoction down the drain. Allow it to work its magic for about half an hour before flushing it out with boiling water.

Vodka

Although vodka may not be the go-to solution for unclogging drains, it can be quite effective for drain maintenance. It helps to clear loose debris, eliminate bacteria, and counteract any foul odours.

Simply pour half a cup down the drain, let it sit for approximately 30 minutes, and then rinse it away with boiling water.