There’s some debate over whether off-the-shelf chemical drain cleaners that include bleach are bad for old metal pipes or not. There is no denying that they are bad for septic systems. Plus, the effect that they have on the environment is considerable as well.

Because of this, it’s best to tackle a clogged drain trap in one of two ways: with no chemicals or with all natural chemicals. Let’s talk about ways to unclog a p-trap.

The first step is to determine if it is your p-trap that is clogged and not a remote clog (i.e. something deep within the home). If the water backs up immediately after turning on the water, it’s probably in or around the p-trap. If it takes awhile – say 10 minutes after your running the water – then it’s probably a remote clog. Basically, your sink is acting like a big ol’ container – and the further the clog is away, the longer it’ll take to fill up and overflow.

For kitchen sink clogs the culprit is usually food or grease. That’s bad because it means someone doesn’t know how to properly dispose of grease but god because it’s pretty easy to fix. First off, try to use a degreaser. Here’s a quick recipe for a natural degreaser:

• ¼ c. dish washing detergent
• 2 to 3 gallons of boiling water

Pour slowly and directly down the drain to avoid splashing and scalding. Note: do not use this if you’ve already poured chemicals down the drain.

You can also try this recipe:

• ½ c. baking soda
• ½ c. white vinegar

First, pour the baking soda directly down the drain. Then add the ½ c. of white vinegar and cover the drain with the little stopper. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes then pour a quart of boiling water down the drain to flush it.

If none of this works, you can use a mechanical snake (buy one at the hardware store) or remove the p-trap. Here’s the safest method for doing that:

• Remove any standing water, as it may be hazardous (full of all the chemicals that failed to clean the sink!)
• Use a plumbers wrench to loosen the nuts on either side of the p-trap
• Remove the p-trap and clean it out
• Clean the down-pipe  as well, as you’ll have a lot  better access now
• Check the washers at either joint for damage. Replace the washers now if they are damaged.
• Re-install the p-trap and tighten the nuts with your bare hands.
• Check for leaks again. If no leaks, tighten it up with the pipe wrench but avoid overtightening as this can cause cracks and leaks.

If all else fails, call a plumber! Also, remember, don’t mix chemicals. This means don’t put one chemical down the drain and then chase it with another! They’ll mix down in the drain and then the poisonous fumes will seep upwards to kill your birds and eventually YOU!