Clogged drains are one of the most common—and frustrating—plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, standing water in your shower, or a backed-up kitchen drain, knowing what you can (and can’t) do yourself can save you time, money, and a major mess.
At ALLN1 Plumbing, we help homeowners in St. Louis, Florissant, and Edwardsville, IL tackle everything from minor clogs to full-blown sewer line blockages. In this guide, we’ll break down safe at-home methods, what to avoid, and when it’s time to call a professional for expert drain cleaning and jetting services.
Common Causes of Drain Clogs
Before we dive into solutions, it’s helpful to understand what typically causes clogs in the first place:
- Hair buildup in bathroom drains
- Grease and food particles in kitchen sinks
- Soap scum and hard water deposits
- Foreign objects (toys, hygiene products, paper towels)
- Tree root intrusion in main sewer lines
Over time, even small blockages can lead to serious damage if not addressed properly.
DIY Drain Clearing: What’s Safe to Use?
If your clog is minor and isolated to a single fixture, there are a few homeowner-friendly methods you can try:
1. Boiling Water
Sometimes a kettle of hot (not scalding) water is enough to melt grease or soap scum. This method is best for slow-draining sinks but should be avoided if you suspect PVC piping, which may be damaged by heat.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pouring half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain can break up light clogs. Wait 15 minutes and rinse with warm water. This is a safe, natural method that won’t harm your pipes.
3. Plungers
A sink or toilet plunger is a go-to tool for many homeowners. Make sure you’re using the correct type of plunger and always plunge with enough water to create a seal.
4. Drain Snakes or Hand Augers
Available at most hardware stores, these tools can help reach clogs deeper in the drain. However, using them incorrectly can scratch or damage pipes—especially in older homes common in Florissant and St. Louis City.
What to Avoid: Don’t Make the Problem Worse
1. Chemical Drain Cleaners
Over-the-counter chemical drain cleaners are heavily marketed but often do more harm than good. These harsh solutions can:
- Damage or corrode your pipes
- Weaken older plumbing systems
- Harm the environment
- Create toxic fumes in poorly ventilated areas
If your clog is stubborn, it’s safer—and more effective—to skip the chemicals and call a professional.
2. Home Remedies That Involve Force
Never force water or objects down a clogged drain. Using coat hangers, metal rods, or makeshift tools can damage your plumbing or push the clog deeper into the system.
When to Call a Pro: Drain Jetting and Inspection
If your drain is slow no matter what you try—or if multiple fixtures are backing up at once—it’s time to call ALLN1 Plumbing for professional drain jetting. This high-pressure water technique clears your pipes safely and thoroughly, removing grease, roots, and debris without harming your plumbing.
We also offer camera inspections, so we can pinpoint exactly where the problem is and fix it right the first time.
Serving St. Louis, Edwardsville, and Florissant
Whether you’re in a historic home in St. Louis City, a suburban neighborhood in Florissant, or across the river in Edwardsville, IL, our experienced plumbers can help restore your plumbing system quickly and affordably.
Call ALLN1 Plumbing Today
Tired of standing water, foul smells, or repeated clogs? Don’t wait until a minor drain issue becomes a costly repair.
Call ALLN1 Plumbing today at 314-688-6718 to schedule your drain cleaning or inspection in St. Louis, Florissant, or Edwardsville. We’ll get your plumbing flowing smoothly—fast, safe, and done right the first time.