The Easiest Way To Unclog A Drain Is Already In Your Bathroom Cabinet

If your sink is gurgling, draining slower than usual, or giving off that suspicious musty smell, it's probably clogged. But before you reach for a pricey drain cleaner or call a plumber, there's a simple trick you might not have considered. Better still, it's probably already in your bathroom cabinet. Alka-Seltzer, the fizzy antacid you'd normally take for an upset stomach, can actually help clear out minor drain clogs with the help of one other household staple: vinegar.

It works thanks to a classic chemical reaction. Alka-Seltzer contains sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) and citric acid. When you drop it down the drain and follow it up with a cup of vinegar, the mixture creates a powerful fizzing reaction that releases carbon dioxide. That bubbling action can help break up grease, gunk, and buildup, loosening it so it can be flushed away. Unlike commercial drain cleaners, this method is gentle on your pipes and doesn't rely on harsh or corrosive chemicals that could cause damage over time. It's cheap, non-toxic, and surprisingly effective for slow drains in the bathroom or kitchen. It's perfect for when you need a quick fix without a trip to the store. Plus, your drain will smell better after, too!

Before you begin, don't forget to empty out any standing water in your sink. Once you've gathered your ingredients, just two or three Alka-Seltzer tablets and a cup of white vinegar, you'll want to move quickly. Start by removing the sink stopper so the tablets can drop directly into the drain. Pop both Alka-Seltzer tablets in, and then immediately pour the vinegar over them. You'll hear fizzing right away, and that's exactly what you want. The bubbling reaction is breaking up grime and sludge inside the pipes.

Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the reaction time to work its way through the blockage. While you wait, bring a kettle or pot of water to a boil. After the 10 minutes is up, carefully pour the boiling water down the drain. The heat helps to flush out any loosened debris and clears the pipe of any leftover residue. Finally, turn on your faucet, and let the water run for a bit. If everything is draining smoothly, you're good to go. If you're still seeing signs of a clog, feel free to repeat the process. For best results, aim to use this method on slow drains or light clogs rather than severe backups or standing water. Pipes can be super sensitive, so make sure to avoid making these mistakes when cleaning your drain.

While the Alka-Seltzer and vinegar method is a handy solution for light clogs, it's not a magic fix for everything. If your drain is completely backed up or has standing water that won't budge, this method likely won't cut it. You can try to unclog your drain with other unexpected items around your house, such as a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. In more extreme cases, you'll probably need to try a plunger or a drain snake or call in a professional. Still, this fizzy DIY trick can be a solid first step, especially if you catch the clog early.

To keep your drains in better shape long-term, try incorporating this method as a monthly maintenance step. You can also use Coca-Cola instead of Alka-Seltzer and vinegar for a similar effect, since this soda is corrosive and can help to dissolve a clog. Avoid dumping grease, coffee grounds, or hair down the drain to begin with; those are some of the biggest culprits behind stubborn clogs. For an extra boost, try adding a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or eucalyptus) with the vinegar. It'll help freshen the sink and make your bathroom smell great, too. Small habits like these can help prevent build-up and keep things running smoothly without relying on heavy-duty chemicals. If you're interested in trying other methods, here is another common household ingredient that can unclog slow-draining sinks and tubs.