Stop pouring vinegar and baking soda when the water pipe is clogged? The plumber and electricity master reveals the truth: This way, cleaning is faster and does not damage the equipment.

Are the drain holes in your kitchen or bathroom often blocked? Many people will take out baking soda and white vinegar and try to use "bubble reaction" to unclog water pipes. However, professional plumbers warn that this method is not universal, and sometimes it is even "completely ineffective" and may make the problem worse.

Baking soda + white vinegar is not a panacea.

According to Justin Cornforth, the person in charge of British Ace Plumbing and a senior plumber, different causes of blockage require different countermeasures. Kitchen sinks are often filled with grease and food debris, while bathroom drain holes are often filled with hair and soap scum.

He pointed out that the chemical reaction between baking soda and white vinegar is indeed effective for minor oil stains, but it is completely useless for "hair style blockage". "Don't waste time mixing these materials, because it will hardly help the blockage in the bathroom."

For stubborn blockages, rely on "mechanical methods".

Cornforth suggested that if the drainage is completely blocked, a "drain snake" should be used. Tools such as snakes use physical methods to draw out hair and debris. "Stainless steel is more durable, while plastic ones are easy to break and get stuck in the pipe."

It doesn't matter if you don't have a drainage snake. He added that as long as you straighten the wire hanger, keep a small hook at the front end, insert it into the drainage hole, rotate it and pull it out, you can temporarily solve the problem.

Kitchen grease is suitable for "enzyme-based cleaners"

If the blockage is due to grease accumulation, experts recommend using "enzyme-based cleaners" instead. Such products contain enzymes and probiotics that can break down grease, starch and protein. They are environmentally friendly and will not corrode pipe walls.

He reminded that although this type of cleaner acts slowly, it is suitable for regular maintenance. It is "more effective than baking soda and white vinegar, and safer than strong chemicals."

Experts remind: "Treat the right remedy" for the cause of the blockage.

Cornforth emphasized that instead of trying various Internet remedies, it is better to first clarify the source of the blockage. Different problems such as hair, grease, soap scum, etc. require different cleaning methods. Only by choosing the right tools and enzymatic cleaning methods can you truly keep your water pipes clear and extend their service life.