Replacing your chemical-based drain cleaners with natural-based drain cleaners is not as daunting of a task as it may seem. Numerous natural cleansing concoctions can be made from items found in your household pantry, and there are also many natural drain cleaners available for purchase. These cleaners not only are effective at cleaning your drains, but also are safer alternatives for products to use around your family.

Home remedies:

Baking soda mixture: 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 cup white vinegar, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, and 1 gallon of hot water combine to be a very effective natural drain cleaner. Pour the baking soda down the drain. Then, mix together the white vinegar and lemon juice, and pour it down the drain. Allow the concoction to foam for several minutes, and then pour at least one gallon of hot water down the drain to flush it. This process can be repeated once a week to maintain a clean drain.

Washing soda: A solution of 1lb. of washing soda (found in the laundry aisle) combined with three gallons of boiling water is another natural alternative to chemical-based drain cleaners. Leave this solution in your pipes overnight before rinsing it away the next day. This washing soda solution is particularly good at removing grease and hair from drains.

Drink away clogs: Surprisingly, some of the most common beverages can be used to clean drains. Common household remedies include pouring a can of Coca-Cola, or other dark carbonated beverage, down your drain once a week. Also, putting used coffee grounds down kitchen and bathroom drains can be used as a way to clear and prevent clogs.

Salty solution: Pour 1 cup of salt down the drain followed by a pan of boiling water. Salt is an abrasive, so it is great for clearing clogs. Before rinsing the solution out of the drain allow the boiling water and salt to sit in the pipes for a bit. This process can be repeated as needed.

For purchase:

Enza-Power: This natural drain cleaner is safe for your septic system as well as your family. Enza-Power is made from bacteria and enzymes that eat away oil, food, hair, paper, grease, and other nasty tidbits that can be caught on your pipes. This cleaner is also great for removing drain odors.

Drainbo: One of the more popular brands of natural drain cleaners, Drainbo is another option for a nontoxic cleaner that is environmentally friendly. It is a seven-strain live bacteria formula that eats away practically everything that builds up in drains and pipes. Drainbo has a host of products that can be used in the home, in recreational vehicles, and in commercial and/or institutional applications.

With these tips for natural drain cleaners greening your plumbing is easier than ever before. Using natural-based drain cleaners not only will make you feel secure in the condition of your pipes, but also will make you feel secure in the safety and health of your family and environment. If clogged pipes or drainage problems persist, please contact your local plumbing professional.