Homemade Drain Cleaner

If you have ever read the precautions on the back label of store-bought drain cleaner, you more than likely have noticed that the precautions are far more extensive than the directions. Store-bought drain cleaner can be dangerous if not used properly, and it can pose a hazard to the environment if misused, mishandled, or disposed of improperly. Store-bought lye-based drain cleaner isn't always necessary to clear drains beginning to clog. Homemade drain cleaner that is far less hazardous and less caustic is always a better choice. Try the following easy recipes for homemade drain cleaner to save yourself money while finding environmentally friendly alternatives to caustic chemicals.

Homemade Clog Buster

If your drains are currently clogged, this is the best homemade drain opener. It's inexpensive, easy to use, and it will effectively open your drains without a great deal of expense or the need for potentially dangerous chemicals.

To make this homemade clog buster you'll need 4 cups of boiling water, and 1 cup of powdered sodium borate, more commonly known as borax. You'll find powdered borax in the household cleaner isle of most discount and grocery stores, and it's relatively inexpensive.

Begin by pouring the borax into the drain, followed by the boiling water. Allow it to stand undisturbed for approximately 20 minutes. Finish by rinsing it down with clear running water.

Regular-Strength Homemade Drain Cleaner

If you want to keep your drains running smooth, try this regular-strength homemade drain cleaner. Store it in a covered container out of reach of children and pets. It's a fantastic alternative to costly store-bought drain cleaners that contains harsh ingredients.

Make this homemade regular-strength drain cleaner by combining 2 cups of baking soda, 2 cups of salt, and ½ cup of cream of tartar. You'll find cream of tartar in the spice section of your local grocery store, but when making homemade drain cleaner it's much more economical to buy this ingredient in bulk. Visit a bulk food retailer, or order it online to obtain the best price.

Use this homemade drain cleaner by pouring ¼ of the dry mixture into the drain, and carefully add 1 cup of boiling water. Let it stand for approximately 20 minutes, and flush it down with cold water. Follow these steps on a weekly basis to keep your drains running smooth.

Heavy-Duty Homemade Drain Cleaner

This heavy-duty homemade drain cleaner is effective at clearing drains that are beginning to clog. It works to break up grease, grime, and debris that has collected on the interior of drainpipes, and although it can be harmful to skin and mucous membranes, it's still considerably safer than commercial cleaners containing lye. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves before using this homemade drain cleaner.

You'll need 4 tablespoons of washing soda and 2 quarts of hot water. Look for washing soda in the laundry supply aisle of your local grocery or discount store. If your drains aren't clogged beyond clearing, this easy homemade solution should solve the problem.

Simply mix the washing soda with hot water, and stir until it dissolves completely. Slowly and carefully pour the mixture into the drain, and allow it to stand undisturbed for about 15 minutes. Rinse it down with hot water.

Garbage Disposal Cleaner

Garbage disposals require regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of odor-causing residue and leftover food particles, but don't let the prospect of cleaning your disposal stop you from using it. A garbage disposal is really very easy to clean with the help of homemade cleaner containing ordinary white vinegar and tap water.

Mix two cups of white vinegar with 2 cups of cool water, and pour the mixture into ice cube trays. Place the trays in the freezer until the mixture becomes solid. When you're ready to clean your garbage disposal, simply pop out the ice cubes, and grind them in the disposal. You won't find an easier more effective way to keep your garbage disposal and drains clean, smelling fresh, and operating smoothly.