Bad odors or blockages are a nuisance to drains. To get rid of the odor and build-up of organic matter that causes this blockage, you'll need to clean your drains regularly. If the water doesn't seem to be flowing smoothly, you can try some quick ways to clear the blockage yourself. In addition, you can also prevent odors and blockages in the drains to avoid this problem from happening.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Removing Odors and Blockages
Step 1. Use white vinegar, baking soda, and hot water to clean drains
These three ingredients will help get rid of odors caused by bacterial buildup, grease, and residual organic matter in waterways. In addition, this method can also clean the drains to prevent the occurrence of blockages again in the future. Pour cup (120 ml) of baking soda down the drain, followed by cup (120 ml) of white vinegar. Immediately close the drain and let the two ingredients mix for about 15 minutes. Next, boil a little water in a kettle or saucepan, and pour it into the drain.
A solution of baking soda and vinegar can also be used to remove stains and mineral buildup from around drains
Step 2. Clean dirty stains with a biological cleaner
Regular preventive maintenance can keep bad odors at bay, prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in drains, as well as prevent blockages from forming in the future. Biological or enzymatic drain cleaners such as Zep or Citra-Drain are quite safe to use and environmentally friendly. Follow the instructions for use on the packaging to clean drains and remove odors and blockages.
Step 3. Pour the ice, salt, and lemon zest into the stinky trash colander
If the trash filter in your sink is still working but smells bad, it's possible that organic matter and bacteria have started to grow there. Fill this trash sieve with a few ice cubes, a handful of coarse salt, and a few lemon zests. Allow the blades of the waste filter to smooth the mixture for a while so that the build-up of organic matter and bacteria can be removed with a safe abrasive.
Method 2 of 4: Overcoming Blockages
Step 1. Use a toilet vacuum to clear the blockage
This vacuum is not only effective for clearing toilet blockages, but is also useful for clogged sinks and bathtubs. Fill the sink or tub with water so that it soaks the bottom of the suction cup. Then, press the toilet vacuum firmly against the drain to make it airtight. Press and pull the toilet vacuum a few times quickly.
- A toilet vacuum with a tip that can be inserted into the drain may be more effective at clearing the blockage.
- If there are two drains in your sink, cover one of them with a washcloth or rubber cap tightly before using the toilet vacuum.
- Use a separate toilet vacuum for use in the toilet.
Step 2. Use a plastic barbed cleaner for drains
Barbed drain cleaners such as the Zip-It Bath and Sink Hair Snare are a powerful solution for dealing with blockages near drains. Just insert the tool into the water line, then pull it out. The thorn-like branches on this tool will pull out hair and other objects that clog drains.
Step 3. Use a gas or water powered cleaner to blow away the blockage
An aerosol drain cleaner can blow compressed air or gas into the water line to remove the blockage. Meanwhile, the watter bladder uses pressurized water to do the same thing.
- If you choose to use a gas-powered cleaner, you'll want to make sure it's the right size for the water line. You may have to use an adapter to be sure. If the drain can't be closed tightly, pressurized water may gush up instead of into the drain.
- Water-powered cleaners are usually connected to a garden hose, but you may get an adapter so you can connect to a water faucet.
Step 4. Use a heating pad to melt the fat plug
Wrap a heating pad around the tubing under the sink. Turn on the heating pad to heat the pipe. Next, pour hot water into the drain until the fat deposits are removed. Add a little dish soap to help dissolve the fat.
Step 5. Resolve the blockage biologically
Use an enzymatic or bacterial cleanser overnight at regular intervals to clear a partial blockage or simply to clear a drain. Follow the instructions for use on the packaging.
- The effect of biological cleaning agents is slower and less effective than chemical cleaners. However, biological cleaning agents are safer for you, your waterways, and the environment.
- To be effective, biological cleaning agents may have to be used repeatedly.
Step 6. Call a plumber
If all your efforts are fruitless, or if you are not confident enough to solve the problem on your own, contact a plumber to fix the clogged drain. If you live in a rented house or apartment, contact the landlord or property manager so they can get someone to help you.
Method 3 of 4: Clearing Deep Blockages with Flexible Cleaner
Step 1. Purchase a flexible cleaning kit that is reasonably priced
This flexible cleaner is effective at removing deep blockages that cannot be reached by other means. If you don't want to buy one, maybe you can rent one at a home improvement store. This tool is available in various length options. A 7.5 m long flexible cleaner should be sufficient to deal with most cases of household drains.
You should also buy rubber gloves with good grip, wear protective eyewear, especially if you have recently used harsh cleaning products
Step 2. Remove the gooseneck pipe under the sink if necessary
Some sinks have a built-in filter so you may have to pass through this filter to get to the blockage. The gooseneck pipe is the J-shaped pipe under the sink. In some sinks, this pipe can be removed by hand, but if you can't, you may be able to do this with the help of a wrench or pliers. Have a bucket nearby to catch the water that comes out of the pipe once it's been successfully released.
Step 3. Insert the flexible cleaning cable into the pipe hole
Once it's a few centimeters in, twist the handle while continuing to push the end into the pipe. The tip of the tool will go further into the pipe until it reaches the blockage.
If there is a sharp bend in the pipe, you may have to wiggle the tool wire or twist the handle harder to get it in
Step 4. Keep turning the tool handle until it reaches the blockage
If the tip of the tool encounters a blockage that is too strong or large to crush, you will have a hard time turning it. Rotate the tool handle a few times so that the tip sticks firmly into the blockage, then shake it gently to loosen it.
Step 5. Turn the tool handle the other way around to remove it from the pipe
If the tip of the tool hits the blockage, the lump should come out with the tool. Remove clogs, then clean the tip of the tool.
Step 6. Check the drains and clean again if necessary
Turn on the faucet of the sink or bathtub, then see if the water can flow smoothly. If not, try inserting the flexible cleaner into the plumbing again, and repeat as needed until the flow is smooth.
Method 4 of 4: Preventing Clogs, Odors, and Garbage Piles
Step 1. Use a drain filter to prevent clogging
Water and small particles can flow through the filter, but soap scum, hair, and large particles will remain on the surface. Use the drain filter in the tub and in the sink when in use.
Step 2. Keep grease and oil out of drains
Grease can accumulate in water pipes, causing blockages and bad odors, and even problems outside the home such as blockages in drains. So, never pour used cooking oil into the water line. Wipe paper towels on greasy dishes before washing, and use plenty of hot water and dish soap to break up any remaining grease.
Step 3. Clean the pipes and cover the drains periodically
Pour a few liters of boiling water into the drains once a week for regular cleaning. In addition, also clean the drain cover regularly because dirt and hair can accumulate and cause blockages there.
Warning
- Do not use chemical cleaning agents on drains that have completely stopped flowing, especially in standing water. This will make puddles dangerous and not just disgusting. As a result, the next cleaning step that requires the help of mechanical tools becomes even more dangerous.
- The pressure of the toilet vacuum or pressure cleaner that is too high can damage the water line or pipe. If you've tried to clear the drain plug, but to no avail, contact a plumber who can fix it without damaging the pipes.
- Chemical cleaning agents are generally not recommended for septic tanks as they will kill the beneficial bacteria present in them.
