When you have a drain backup that is threatening to cause a water overflow, you need to take action quickly. Start by turning off the water source. Then try to figure out what is causing the clogged drain, although in most cases, you won't know. Here are some tips that often work quickly to unstop a clogged drain.
Use a Plunger
Use a plunger with a rubber lip by pushing it up and down over the drain opening. The plunger helps to dislodge small items or accumulated debris near the surface of the drain. The standing water can then slip down the drain while you remove whatever clogged the drain unless it is a congealed mass of food, garbage, or fabric fibers in the laundry tub. Pull out as much of the clogging substance as you can. Run water a few minutes to ensure it continues to flow unobscured into the drainpipe.
Insert a Drain Snake
For deeper clogs, you may need to insert a plumber's snake into the drain to remove or dislodge backed-up debris. A plumber's snake is a long, rubbery-like tube with a narrow hook end that can latch onto whatever is clogging the drain, like a makeup remover pad, and pull it out whether in one piece or several. Another type of removal snake has serrated edges to catch onto whatever might be sticking to the inside of the drain. You just insert it as far as it will go, turn it a few times to catch whatever is in the drain, and pull it out to remove the clog.
Natural De-Clogging Strategies
Instead of using toxic, corrosive chemicals, work with natural products like hot water and vinegar to dissolve backed-up sewage, food, or muck. Sprinkle baking soda into the drain followed by vinegar. This causes an automatic fizzing sensation that can loosen stuck-on buildup in the drain and cause it to either float to the surface of the sink or wash away down the drain. You can also use boiling water but be careful carrying it to the drain in another area of the house. Use the water alone or with baking soda and vinegar to add heat and force to whatever is causing the clog.
Call a Plumber
Sometimes, whatever is causing your drain to be plugged cannot be managed very easily. You may need to call a professional plumber for an expert drain cleaning to unclog the drain. Plumbers have all the tools of the trade needed to take care of any type of clog. If your efforts don't work, contact a licensed plumber.
Backed-up drains are inconvenient and odorous. They require immediate attention. Unclog a stopped drain quickly to keep your home's water flowing freely.
