TechCitric acid: The unclogging hero for your home's drains

Citric acid: The unclogging hero for your home's drains

A clogged drain can be a troublesome issue at home. Learn how to deal with it quickly and effectively using citric acid instead of traditional baking soda.

How to unclog a sink using a home remedy?
How to unclog a sink using a home remedy?
Images source: © Getty Images | Vyacheslav Dumchev

Household plumbing can sometimes experience problems with clogged drains. Although it's theoretically a minor fault, it can become a real hassle. Slow-draining water and unpleasant smells from the pipes are typical signs of clogging.

Citric acid as an alternative to baking soda

Did you know that you can use citric acid instead of baking soda? Pour a tablespoon of citric acid into the drain and flush it with hot water. This method works quickly and is gentle on the pipes.

Another effective method for a clogged drain is a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour equal parts into the sink and rinse with hot water. It's an equally effective alternative to chemical products.

Preventing drain problems

Remember to avoid dumping food scraps or tea and coffee grounds into the drain to avoid a clogged sink. Also, avoid pouring hot grease, which can solidify and block the pipes.

You can also use citric acid to descale your kettle. Pour a packet into the kettle, fill it with water, bring to a boil, and the scale will disappear. It's a cheaper, natural alternative to store-bought descalers.

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