Forget baking soda and vinegar - expert shares 'quickest' way to unblock drains

Blocked drains are a common issue for many households in Ireland. Everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning and bathing can lead to the accumulation of food scraps, soap residues, oils and grease, which can slow down drainage and cause unpleasant odours.

These problems can be particularly annoying as they not only disrupt daily routines but can also result in expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. However, dealing with these blockages can often be straightforward with the right approach.

If your drains are draining slowly or emitting foul smells, it's likely you have a blocked drain. But don't worry, because experts have provided an easy solution.

According to cleaning specialists at Bright and Beautiful, the best remedy for a blocked drain isn't the usual chemical cleaner, baking soda or vinegar - but soda crystals, which work the "quickest."

They suggested: "There's no need to call a plumber for most ordinary or non-severe blockages. Try pouring boiling water down the sink, once it has drained away, fill a mug with soda crystals and pour it down the plughole," reports the Irish Mirror.

While white vinegar and baking soda are popular cleaning agents, their chemical reaction is often not strong enough to break down the fatty grease in drains. This combination usually results in fizzing salty water that fails to clear the blockage.

Soda crystals, being highly alkaline, can effectively break down acidic grease and fat, allowing them to dissolve easily in water. They are also potent against organic build-ups, making them a perfect solution for unblocking bathroom sinks clogged with hair or soap scum.

To utilise soda crystals for drain clearance, simply pour boiling water from a kettle down the drain. After the water has drained, add the soda crystals and let them sit for five to ten minutes to work on the blockage.

Follow this up with another round of boiling water to rinse away the soda crystals along with the dislodged grease and fat. As a final step, experts suggest pouring a full kettle of hot water down the sink to ensure the blockage is completely cleared.

This method allows you to effectively tackle blockages without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive plumbing services.