Drain Smells or Drains Slowly? The Salt and Hot Water Trick
For preventive drain cleaning, all you need are coarse salt and very hot water-ingredients you already have in your kitchen-and the process takes about an hour.
For preventive drain cleaning, all you need are coarse salt and very hot water-ingredients you already have in your kitchen-and the process takes about an hour.
Unpleasant odors and slower water drainage in the kitchen are often the result of accumulated food residues, grease, and other debris in the pipes. Instead of harsh chemical cleaners, there is a simple household trick that uses only two ingredients: coarse salt and very hot water, as reported by ePodravina.
The best time to do this is in the evening, when you won't be using the sink anymore. First, remove any food scraps from around the drain, then add about half a cup of coarse salt into it and pour approximately half a liter of hot water over it. After that, wait about an hour, then run water to thoroughly flush the drain.
Salt can help remove minor buildup, while hot water helps rinse away greasy residues. However, this method should be considered preventive maintenance, not a solution for major clogs.
The best prevention is still being mindful of what goes into the pipes. Do not pour oil or grease down the sink, as they can solidify and coat the inner walls of the pipes once they cool. Coffee grounds and large amounts of food scraps can also cause problems.
If the drain is already completely blocked and water barely passes or doesn't drain at all, salt and hot water likely won't be enough. In such cases, a plunger or cleaning the P-trap may help, while for more serious issues, you'll need to address the root cause of the clog.
