People are looking for ways to be more “Green” and environmentally friendly. Professional plumbers are often asked for the best way to naturally clear clogged drains. People are wanting to avoid using harsh chemicals that can find their way into water supplies and ground water. In some cases the home-owner just does not want to risk damaging his pipes by using a lye based chemical. The more dangerous people realize these chemicals are, the less they want them in their homes.

Vinegar and baking soda is a key component in many, natural, clog clearing techniques. Dallas plumbers will tell you that the chemical reaction between the baking soda and the vinegar can soften clogs, making them easier to clear. The bubbles that are formed during the reaction do a bit to loosen up and break apart some of the clog as well. This chemical reaction does not release anything dangerous into the water, since it breaks the acid down into water and carbon dioxide.

For bathtub clogs, San Diego plumbers say that there is a special technique that relies on water pressure. Pour a half cup of vinegar down the drain, followed by a half cup of baking soda. Let this set for about ten minutes then fill the tub with water. The pressure created by the amount of water in the bathtub, combined with the softening effects of the vinegar and baking soda, is usually enough to clear most clogs.

For sinks, it is not likely that you will be able to get the pressure to clear the clog. Boston plumbers recommend applying your half cup of vinegar and half cup of baking soda to the sink drain. Make sure to cover the drain with a towel to keep the foam, from the chemical reaction, from filling your sink. Let it set for ten to fifteen minutes then pour about a liter of boiling water slowly down the drain. This can also be done for preventive maintenance on drains to make sure the pipes are cleaned. This can also clear the drain of any unwanted odors, caused by the clog.

Sometimes the natural way just is not enough and you have to rely on mechanical means. Plungers and plumbing snakes are mechanical ways of breaking up clogs. Continue to use the vinegar and baking soda combination, even with the mechanical clearing method. It can make the clearing the clog faster than using a plunger or plumber's snake alone. Add water to the sink or other appliance so that the plunger can create a good seal, then force the plunger up and down a few times before breaking the seal, repeat until the clog gives way. Plungers break up the clog by using the forces created by the pressure of the seal and force water through it. Snakes are typically metal tapes that have a tip designed to be pushed through the clog and break it up.

If you still are having problems with the plumbing clog, or the clogs seem to return frequently, contact a plumbing professional. Professional plumbers have the advanced tools, training, and experience to take care of your worst clogs. They can also give you other tips on cleaning and maintaining your drains in environmentally friendly ways.