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Natural Ways to Tackle Blocked Drains in Your Oxford Home

The nightmare of every blocked drains oxford Oxford homeowner is dealing with a blocked drain. It’s not just a nuisance, but it can also cause potential health hazards if leftover or standing water becomes contaminated. Instead, why not take the natural route rather than resorting to harsh chemicals or professional services that may cost a fortune? If you find yourself encountering this issue, we have highlighted some effective natural ways to tackle blocked drains in your Oxford home.

1. Hot Water:

Using hot water is one of the easiest and most straightforward techniques to unblock a blocked kitchen sink. The heat from the water dissolves the fatty deposits in the drain pipes, which usually block sinks, allowing them to wash away. The fact that it’s both natural and economical makes it an ideal first step. However, avoid using hot water if you have PVC pipes, as it can loosen their joints.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar:

A combination of baking soda and vinegar is one of the most commonly used natural methods to doing away with blocked drains. First, pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Plug the drain and wait for 20-30 minutes. The mixture will cause a chemical reaction, breaking up any fat, hair, or food materials that might have accumulated in the pipes. Rinse the mixture away with hot water afterward.

3. Caustic Soda:

Caustic soda or sodium hydroxide can also help in clearing blocked drains. However, you should proceed with caution because it can cause chemical burns. Before using this method, ensure to wear eye protection and rubber gloves. Add three cups of caustic soda to cold water and stir well until it begins to fizz. Pour the solution into the blocked drain and leave it for 20-30 minutes before rinsing with boiling water.

4. Salt and Baking Soda:

Mix equal amounts of salt and baking soda and pour down the blocked drain. Let the blend sit for some time, ideally overnight. Then, flush with boiling water. The amalgamation of salt and baking soda can be effective in breaking down the muck and grime.

5. Plunger:

This traditional yet handy tool is an old faithful when it comes to dealing with blocked drains. If you have a plunger on hand, it’s always worth giving it a try before moving on to other methods. Ensure the plunger forms a seal over the drain, then pump it vigorously. The suction can often dislodge whatever is causing the blockage, allowing water to flow freely once more.

6. Cleaning the Pipe:

Sometimes, you need to roll up your sleeves and manually deal with the blockage. Removing the pipe below the sink and cleaning it can help in cases where other methods don’t work. Make sure to place a bucket beneath the sink to collect any overflow before dismantling the pipe.

These harm-free methods can help you effectively tackle blocked drains in your Oxford home. But remember, prevention is always better than cure. Try to prevent blockages from happening in the first place by being mindful of what goes down your drain.

For example, avoid pouring oil and fats down the sink, as they can solidify and cause blockages. Moreover, tea leaves, coffee grounds, and fibrous materials like vegetable peelings can wrap around pipes, blocking them. By being vigilant about your waste disposal habits, you can keep your drains functioning optimally and save yourself from the trouble of unblocking them in the future.