Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent that can be effective at killing germs and disinfecting surfaces. However, when it comes to your drains, pouring bleach down them is not a good idea.
Reasons why it’s not OK to put bleach down the drain
It can harm your pipes
One of the main reasons why it’s not OK to put bleach down the drain is that it can harm your pipes. Bleach is a strong chemical that can corrode certain types of pipes, especially older or metal pipes. This can lead to leaks and other problems that can be costly to repair.
It can be harmful to the environment
Another reason why you shouldn’t put bleach down the drain is that it can be harmful to the environment. When bleach enters the water supply, it can kill beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms that are necessary for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. It can also contaminate the water supply and make it unsafe to drink.
It doesn’t always work
Believe it or not, pouring bleach down the drain doesn’t always work as a way to unblock it. In fact, bleach can sometimes make the problem worse by breaking down grease and other debris, which can then solidify and create a bigger blockage.
There are better alternatives
There are better alternatives to using bleach to unblock a drain. For example, you can use a plunger or a natural cleaner like vinegar to effectively unblock a drain without harming your pipes or the environment.
4 Natural alternatives to bleach to clear your unblocked drain
Use boiling water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to unblock a drain is to use boiling water. Boiling water can help to break up grease and other debris that may be causing the blockage. To use this method, bring a pot of water to a boil and carefully pour it down the clogged drain.
Use baking soda and vinegar
Another natural way to unblock a drain is to use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. The baking soda and vinegar will react to create a fizzy substance that can help to break up the blockage. To use this method, first pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, add a cup of vinegar and let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes. After the time has passed, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to flush away the mixture.
Use a plunger
A plunger is a common tool that can be used to unblock a drain. To use a plunger, simply place it over the drain and pump it up and down several times. This can help to break up the blockage and allow it to pass through the drain.
Use a drain snake
A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake, is a long, flexible tool that can be used to unblock a drain. To use a drain snake, insert the tip into the drain and twist it around to break up the blockage. You can then use the handle to pull out any debris that may be causing the blockage.
Conclusion
Unblocking a drain doesn’t have to mean using harsh chemicals. There are several natural ways to unblock a drain, including using boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, a plunger, and a drain snake. Give one of these methods a try the next time you need to unblock a drain.