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Is Baking Soda a Good Drain Cleaner?

Consider baking soda for a minor drainage clog.
By Andrey_Popov at Shutterstock

You’ll hear two schools of thought when researching baking soda as a drain cleaning solution. Some will tell you baking soda does no good for your plumbing system. Others will claim it works miracles. Sifting through the opinions in search of facts can be troubling. At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio, we’re here to tell you that baking soda can work well as a drain cleaner. Like anything, use the solution in moderation, and remember that nothing beats professional drain cleaning services.

Baking Soda Drain Cleaning

For a minor drainage clog, or for drain cleaning maintenance, baking soda performs a satisfactory job. A minor clog does not require extensive, advanced plumbing equipment. There is no point in breaking out the Hydro-Jetting services for a simple clog.

 

Instead, opt for one cup of baking soda, combined with an equal solution of vinegar and water (one cup of each). Pour the mixture down the drain, then follow with boiling water after an hour or allowing the combination to sit overnight. The reaction of the baking soda mixed with vinegar loosens the clog, while the boiling water forces it from the pipe.

 

How does this occur? Baking soda is primarily sodium bicarbonate. Vinegar is made of water and acetic acid. When combined, the two react and molecules are exchanged, creating carbon dioxide and water. This reaction breaks up material, including dirt, hair, and sludge, and pushes it through the pipe.

 

Furthermore, baking soda and vinegar are eco-friendly. These are natural products. Your other option is a chemical cleaner from the supermarket. We cannot urge you enough to avoid chemical products. Not only do the chemicals included within each bottle cause internal plumbing problems with the pipes, but most are not powerful enough to completely remove a clog either.

Professional Drain Cleaning

Your final, most effective option is professional drain cleaning. With so many ways for a drain to clog, including grease buildup, feminine hygiene products, and pre-moistened wipes, you need an effective solution. Expert plumbers are equipped and trained to tackle plumbing clogs in any system, including the kitchen, bathroom, and basement.

 

Regular drain cleaning services can reduce blockages, remove odors, ensure a clean home, and cut down on the need for costly repairs. It’s an investment. If you forego drain cleaning services, then you’re likely to experience a severe clog or recurring clogs. If that’s the case, you’ll spend more money and risk a worse situation. A burst pipe or hidden plumbing leak can form due to a severe clog. The pressure buildup within the pipes can burst a seam or spring a leak.

 

If you’re after expert drain cleaning services, then look no further than bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio. We offer top-rated drainage services to keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly year-round. Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment by calling 210-876-1629. We’re available day or night to tackle severe drainage clogs!

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