Salt is not just a seasoning that adds flavor to food. The combination of salt and other ingredients can also help you quickly unclog your drain.
The benefits of pouring salt down the drain
Salt helps dissolve substances in the pipes
Salt dissolves things in clogged drains, especially grease. If you notice that your drain is getting more and more clogged, pour half a cup of salt down it, followed by a cup of white vinegar and baking soda (expanding salt).
By doing this, when the drain is unclogged, the salt will work to dissolve the clog and make it flow out faster.
What is the purpose of pouring salt down the drain?
Eliminate drain flies
Drain flies hide in damp places with lots of food, so a clogged drain is the perfect living environment for them. However, salt can prevent flies from nesting in the drain and help get rid of them.
Prevent tree roots from invading the pipes
Tree roots tend to grow towards areas with a lot of water. When plants lack water, they will seek the nearest water source. The drain pipes are the target of tree roots. Therefore, to prevent roots from attacking the pipes, pour salt down them, as plants are afraid of salt.
You just need to make it a habit to pour salt down the drain to clean it a few times a year, enough to prevent tree roots from attacking.
Soften hard water
Salt softens hard water that contains many minerals in the form of ions, such as calcium and magnesium, which helps prevent dirt and deposits from building up on surfaces.
Just pour a little salt down the drain and let it sit overnight. The salt will soften the hard water and help prolong the life of kitchen and bathroom appliances.
Note: Salt is corrosive, so users need to be careful when using it. After pouring salt into the drain, make sure to flush the water thoroughly.
When using salt to soften water, be careful not to let it seep into the water source, as it can be harmful to health.
A simple way to unclog drains with salt
Step 1: Pour salt down the drain
Although the acidity of vinegar helps penetrate the clogs. However, salt alone is enough to clear the water pipes because it is abrasive and corrosive. Measure 1/2 cup of salt. Then pour this solution down the drain.
Step 2: Rinse the pipes with boiling water
Boil 2 liters of water first. Pour the water slowly down the drain. Direct the water directly into the drain to avoid getting burned from the water splashing back. Then flush more hot water from the faucet to clear the drain.
Step 3: Pour salt again for the second time
Since you are only using salt, you may need to do this again to remove the clog. Continue to add salt with a 1/2 cup increase and then flush with boiling water. Avoid pouring too much at once.
A simple way to unclog drains with salt
How to unclog drains with salt and vinegar
Step 1: Mix salt and vinegar
First, take a small bowl and pour 1 cup of salt and 1 cup of vinegar. Stir well to dissolve the salt and vinegar into each other. Continue stirring until the mixture is even. Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice and mix well to give the mixture extra odor reduction ability thanks to the acidity of the lemon juice.
Step 2: Pour the mixture down the drain
First, remove the drain cover. Then pour the mixture directly into the drain. Wrap the entire drain pipe to ensure that the entire clogged area absorbs the mixture. Wait for about 15 minutes. For particularly stubborn clogs, soak the mixture for 30 minutes. If the clog is still not gone, add more vinegar.
Step 3: Rinse the pipes with water again
Boil 2 cups of boiling water and pour the water directly into the drain. Pour slowly to avoid splashing, which can cause burns. Also, pour slowly so that you can direct the water directly into the drain instead of splashing around. This will help remove the clog and completely clear your home’s pipes.
According to vtc.vn