How To Clear A Blocked Drain?
A blocked drain is a common household issue. It often leads to slow drainage, less than pleasant odours and even water damage if it is left untreated or clogged. Be it in the bathroom, kitchen or outdoors, a block can be caused by a build-up of debris – hair, soap scum, grease or, in the case of the outdoors, invading tree roots. While it may seem daunting to tackle this clogging, clearing them does not always necessitate calling for professional assistance. If you take the right approach and use the right tools, you’ll be able to fix such problems yourself while also preventing future repetitions of this issue.
This article will take a look at some of the effective methods that can be used to clear blocked drains. It will cover everything from using simple home remedies to more advanced techniques and calling professional help. Whether you prefer an eco-friendly approach or need a stronger one, the following sections will act as a guide in restoring the functionality of your drains. If the blocks persist despite your best efforts, professional bond cleaners Sunshine Coast can provide you with the assistance you need to resolve drainage issues efficiently.
1. Identify the Cause of the Blockage
Before you try and unclog a clogged drain, it’s important to first identify what it is that is causing the block. Some of the common culprits in this could be: hair and soap residue in the bath drains, food scraps and grease in the kitchen sinks, and tree roots or other debris in the outdoor ones.
But how do you make out how severe the problem is? To diagnose, start by running the water and observing how quickly it drains. If the water is slow-moving or is standing still, the block is likely quite severe. A foul smell can indicate trapped organic matter, and if there is a partial blockage, you’ll likely hear a gurgling sound (which means, if not cleared promptly, it will worsen over time).
2. Using Boiling Water and Natural Remedies: Baking Soda and Vinegar
One of the most eco-friendly and simple ways to clear minor drain blockage is by using boiling water. Pour a kettle of hot water down the drain in stages, allowing it to work through any grease or soap build-up. For stronger or more natural solutions, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, a method often recommended by expert Bond Cleaning Sunshine Coast.
Pour around half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture do its thing for about 10-15 mins, then rinse it away with hot water. This will help break down any organic matter and you can repeat the process as you see fit. However, in the case of PVC pipes, avoid using boiling water as this may damage the pipes themselves.
3. Plunging the Drain

If natural methods don’t work, a plunger can be an effective tool. For the best results, you need to ensure that there is enough water in the sink or tub to cover the plunger’s rubber base. Then, place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly to create a seal; pump up and down vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. Then, remove the plunger and check whether the water drains properly. Repeat the process if needed. For the toilets, use a flange plunger as it is designed to create a better seal.
4. Using a Drain Snake or Wire Hanger
In case of stubborn blockages, a drain snake (a.k.a. plumber’s auger) can help dislodge stuck debris. If you don’t have a drain snake, a straightened-out wire hanger with a hook at the end can also work as a makeshift tool. To use it, insert the snake or hanger into the drain and push it in slowly. Twist and turn the tool to break up the blockage and pull out any debris that is stuck on the tool.
Then, flush the drain with water to check if the block has cleared and repeat the process if not. This method is particularly effective for bathroom drains as it is able to remove clumps of hair stuck in the drain pipes.
5. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners (With Caution)
Chemical drain cleaners are only a last resort option, not to be used routinely, as they contain harsh substances that can damage both the pipes and the environment over time. If you choose to use this method, there are a few things you need to stay mindful of:
- Follow the instructions for the product very carefully.
- Wear gloves and ensure proper ventilation when using it.
- Never mix different drain cleaners together, as this may create toxic
If the block remains even after using these chemicals, avoid repeating the process; instead, consider giving a call to professional bond cleaners in Sunshine Coast. They will help you prevent further damage to your plumbing system and deal with the drainage issue appropriately.
6. Preventing Future Blockages
Once you’ve gotten all the blocks cleared, it is important that you invest some time and thought in practices that can prevent such issues from occurring in the future. Use drain strainers to catch hair and food scraps; avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds directly in the sink; regularly flush the drains with hot water or use a baking soda and vinegar solution.
For the outdoor drainage system, trim any tree roots nearby to prevent intrusions. Regular maintenance will save you time and money while keeping your plumbing system in top condition. If you experience frequent blocks, a professional inspection may help identify any underlying issues before they become worse.
Easy Tips to Clean Clogged Drains

Wrapping up
Clearing a blocked drain is simple if you have the right methods and knowledge. Whatever tools or methods you opt for, tackling any blockage issues early can help you prevent more serious plumbing problems. By maintaining your drains properly, you’ll be able to keep them running smoothly for a long time.