5 Natural Alternatives To Drano That Are Safer And Better To Use

When faced with a clogged drain, you might instinctively reach for a bottle of Drano or a similar chemical drain cleaner. While these products can be effective, they come with a host of potential drawbacks that make them less than ideal for regular use. Given these concerns, it's worth considering natural alternatives that can be just as effective without the associated risks. Some of the best all-natural ingredients you should be using to clear your clogged drain instead of Drano include baking soda and vinegar, salt and hot water, a plunger, a plumber's snake, and enzymatic cleaners. These options are not only safer, but also often more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly.

Chemical drain cleaners like Drano are designed to dissolve clogs quickly, but they achieve this through the use of harsh chemicals. These chemicals can be extremely hard on your plumbing, potentially causing damage to pipes over time. This is why plumbers often warn to avoid Drano. Additionally, the fumes released by these products can be harmful to your health, especially if you use them in poorly ventilated areas. Relying on chemical cleaners may not even address the root of the problem and end up as a Band-Aid fix for a larger plumbing issue. 

They are also not always as effective on certain types of clogs, such as those caused by grease or hair, and can leave behind toxic residues that are harmful to the environment. While Drano and other chemical drain cleaners can be convenient, their potential drawbacks make natural alternatives a more appealing option for many homeowners. By choosing safer, more sustainable methods, you can effectively maintain your drains without compromising your health, the environment, or the integrity of your plumbing. 

The first natural and most versatile alternative to Drano is a simple combo of baking soda and white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar). This dynamic duo is the most effective way to unclog your drain using unexpected things you have around the house. It's also incredibly affordable, and is environmentally friendly. Baking soda and vinegar work together to create a powerful chemical reaction that can break down various types of clogs, including those caused by grease, soap scum, minor hair build ups, and food particles, which are often the culprits behind slow draining sinks and tubs. 

However, for more severe blockages, such as those caused by tree roots or large objects, professional intervention may be necessary. One of the biggest advantages of using baking soda and vinegar is the cost. A box of baking soda and a bottle of vinegar typically cost just a few dollars each, making this method an affordable option for regular drain maintenance.  To use baking soda and vinegar for clearing a clog, pour about ½ cup of baking soda down the drain first and let it sit for about five minutes. Then, follow the baking soda with 1 cup of vinegar. 

Next, you'll want to cover the drain with a plug or cloth to contain the reaction and wait for about 15 to 30 minutes while the mixture fizzes and breaks down the clog. After the wait, flush the drain with hot water to clear away any remaining debris. After flushing the drain with hot water, observe how quickly the water drains. If the clog was cleared, you'll notice immediate improvement. If the water is still draining slowly, you may need to repeat the process or try a different method for more stubborn clogs. 

Another excellent natural alternative to Drano is the combination of table salt and hot water that's around 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This method is straightforward, cost-effective, and can be surprisingly powerful in tackling various types of drain clogs. Salt and hot water work together to break down and dissolve clogs caused by grease, soap scum, and small food particles. The abrasive nature of salt helps to scrub away debris, while the hot water melts and flushes out grease and other build-ups. 

It's important to use hot water but not boiling water, especially if you have PVC pipes, because it could damage the pipes. This method is particularly beneficial, though, because it doesn't involve harsh chemicals. However, it may not be as effective on more stubborn clogs, like those caused by hair or larger obstructions. The cost of using salt and hot water is minimal. A container of salt is inexpensive and readily available, and hot water is essentially free. 

To use salt and hot water for clearing a clog, pour about ½ cup of salt down the clogged drain and let it sit for about five minutes. Meanwhile, heat up a kettle or pot of hot water. Then, carefully pour the hot water down the drain after the salt. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to break down the clog. Go ahead and flush the drain with additional hot water to clear away any remaining debris. Using salt and hot water is simple, safe, and an effective way to maintain your drains and address minor clogs without resorting to chemical cleaners. It's one of many genius ways to use salt around the house.

A plunger is a classic and reliable tool for clearing drain clogs, making it an essential household item. This simple yet effective device can handle a variety of clogs without the need for chemicals, making it a safe and environmentally friendly option. The plunger works by creating a vacuum that forces air and water through the pipe, dislodging the clog and allowing it to be flushed away. This method is highly effective because it uses mechanical force rather than relying on chemical reactions, which means it can tackle even stubborn clogs that other methods might not be able to clear. 

You can use a plunger to handle clogs caused by hair, food, and other debris. They're particularly effective for clogs in sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. However, they may not be as effective for clogs deep within the plumbing system or those caused by solid objects that can't be dislodged by suction alone. Additionally, plungers are reusable and durable, making them an affordable solution. The cost of a plunger is relatively low, typically ranging from $5 to $30, depending on the type and quality. Try this one from FORASTO on Amazon or consult our list of the best plungers to make clearing stubborn clogs a breeze.

This is usually a one-time investment and can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for professional plumbing services or chemical drain cleaners. To use a plunger, make sure there is enough water to cover the plunger's cup then place it over the drain to create a good seal. Approach the drain sideways with a rolling motion to avoid trapping air. Then, push up and down vigorously several times to generate suction and pressure, which will help dislodge the clog. Remove the plunger and check if the water begins to drain quickly and repeat if necessary. 

A plumber's snake, also known as an auger, is considered the "big guns" of removing drain clogs and is an excellent consideration as opposed to Drano. It's especially effective at removing more stubborn clogs that other methods can't handle. It consists of a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled or corkscrew-like end. The cable is typically housed in a drum or reel, which you can manually operate with a handle or crank. Some advanced models are motorized for extra power.

A drain snake is designed to reach deep into your pipes and physically break up or retrieve the blockage, making it an alluring option for a variety of clogs like hair, small objects, and other debris. It can also navigate through the twists and turns of your plumbing, making it ideal for complex blockages in sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. When using a plumber's snake, you'll always want to wear protective gear like rubber gloves and safety goggles. Never use a drain cleaner when you're snaking the drain, either. 

You probably won't want to use a plumber's snake if you're trying to clear sewer pipes blocked by tree roots or if you're working with old, fragile pipes that can easily break. In these instances, you'll likely want to call a professional to handle the job. There are three primary types of plumber's snakes you can choose to use based on which type of drain is clogged, including a handheld sink drain, a closet or toilet snake, or a heavy duty drain-cleaning machine. To start, try this one by FlexiSnake on Amazon. You can also make a DIY drain snake from items around the house. 

Enzymatic cleaners are considered the best non-toxic alternative to chemical drain cleaners like Drano and are a particularly gentle yet effective method for clearing and maintaining your drains. These cleaners use natural enzymes and bacteria to break down organic matter, making them both safe for your plumbing and the environment. Enzymatic cleaners are recommended for clogs caused by food particles, grease, and hair. They work by introducing beneficial bacteria into the drain, which then produce enzymes that essentially digest the clog. This process not only clears the blockage, but also helps prevent future clogs by keeping the pipes clean. 

Enzymatic cleaners are ideal for regular maintenance as well and you can use them in kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers, and tubs. They may be less effective for immediate, severe clogs, but excel in preventing build-up over time. The cost of enzymatic cleaners can vary, but they are generally affordable, with prices ranging from $10 to $70 per bottle. They are also biodegradable, making them better for both the environment and your septic system — in fact, some can even improve the flora of your septic tank in the long term. To use an enzymatic cleaner, follow the instructions on the product label. 

These typically involve pouring some of the cleaner down the drain and allowing it to sit for several hours or overnight. This gives the enzymes time to do their work and break down the clog. After the recommended time, you'll typically flush the drain with hot water to wash away any remaining debris. The natural composition of enzymatic cleaners makes them a great choice if you're looking to reduce your reliance on harsh chemicals while keeping your plumbing in top condition. One common enzymatic drain clog dissolver, Green Gobbler, is available to purchase on Amazon.