Vinegar and baking soda unblocks drains ‘better’ and ‘faster’ when 1 natural item is added

Vinegar and baking soda unblocks drains ‘better’ and ‘faster’ when 1 natural item is added (Image: Getty)

Drains that are blocked often force households to call out plumbers which can lead to a hefty price, but so can many store-bought solutions.

What’s more, many store-bought drain cleaners contain strong, corrosive chemicals that, while effective, can cause long-term damage to your pipes.

These chemicals can also be harmful to the environment, particularly if they enter the water system.

Instead, Clare from Bust The Dust has claimed that using a few everyday household items makes for a “quick and affordable fix for stubborn clogs” in your kitchen or bathroom.

She added that with the addition of salt, it’s “faster” and “works just as well, if not better, than many of the products you’ll find in stores”.

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This solution breaks down grease, hair, soap scum, and food particles (Image: Getty)

The DIY drain unblocker recipe uses only three ingredients - baking soda, white vinegar, and salt – all of which can be found in most kitchen cupboards.

When combined, these ingredients “create a powerful reaction that breaks down grease, hair, soap scum, and food particles” that typically cause blockages.

For this method, simply pour 100g of table salt and 200g of baking soda into the blocked drain, followed by 500ml white vinegar.

Clare said: “You’ll immediately notice a fizzy reaction as the vinegar reacts with the baking soda to break down debris.”

Salt adds extra cleaning power when unblocking drains (Image: Getty)

Allow the mixture to sit for around 30 minutes before flushing the drain with boiling water.

For “particularly stubborn clogs”, the process can be repeated to ensure the blockage is completely cleared.

So how does this solution work? This homemade method works by harnessing the chemical reaction between the vinegar (an acid) and baking soda (a base).

The fizzing action created when they combine helps to dissolve the fats and grease that can clog pipes, while the salt “adds extra cleaning power” and “helps to scrub away any stubborn grime”.

It’s a completely natural process, meaning there are no harsh chemicals involved - making it a safer option for both your home and the environment.

Clare said: “What’s great about this method is that it’s so simple, but it’s also really effective. The natural ingredients break down organic materials like hair and food waste that are often responsible for blockages, and because it’s non-toxic, there’s no risk to your pipes, pets, or family.”

For best results, Clare recommends using this solution as soon as you notice your drains starting to slow. She claimed: “If you catch the blockage early, this homemade recipe is usually all you need to get your pipes flowing freely again.”