How to keep your kitchen sink clog-free without calling a plumber

We often contribute to clogging the kitchen drain ourselves. Food scraps, coffee or tea grounds, and fats should never end up there. We know how to prevent it, but sometimes, it just happens. Immediately, the smell is unpleasant, and the water doesn't drain efficiently. This makes daily dishwashing and meal preparation difficult.

It's worth cleaning the drain regularly to avoid problems. You can use cheap and readily available products like a mixture of one packet (approximately 15 grams) of baking soda and a cup (240 ml) of hot vinegar. These ingredients react, creating active foam that removes dirt and impurities. This simple method works in both the bathroom and the kitchen, especially for minor clogs caused by organic matter.

If the impurities are large, baking soda and vinegar may not suffice. In that case, using chemical drain cleaners might be necessary. However, remember that while effective, these chemicals can be hazardous. Many of them contain strong substances that can negatively affect health and damage the plumbing if used improperly.

Experts recommend another method to try. Pour two to three crushed aspirin tablets into the clogged drain, then pour a cup (240 ml) of hot vinegar over them. You will hear bubbling and an unpleasant odour, indicating the mixture is working. After 15 minutes, rinse the drain with a cup (240 ml) of boiling water. The aspirin and vinegar mixture should effectively remove impurities and neutralize the unpleasant odour.

• Use a strainer. Placing a strainer in the sink prevents large food scraps and other debris from entering the pipes, helping to avoid clogs.
• Avoid pouring fats down the sink. Fats and oils should be disposed of in organic waste or stored in a closed container. They create hard-to-remove blockages in the pipes.
• Regular checks. Checking the condition of the pipes and plumbing can help detect problems before they become serious clogs. For larger issues, it's better to consult a plumber.