Clogged drains can be a real pain. Thankfully, most surface-level clogs are fairly easy for do-it-yourselfers to clear.

Unlike chemical drain cleaners, these DIY methods don’t damage your pipes and are often just as effective. Here are some tips to unclog a drain using tools most plumbers have in their tool bag. It is important to note that a lot of do it yourself attempts can lead to serious plumbing issues. Most plumbing problems should be addressed by a plumbing professional.

1. Plunger

A plunger can often be the most effective tool to unclog a drain. It’s a cheap, easy-to-use household tool that can save you money on plumber fees and prevent damage to your pipes.

Make sure that you choose a plunger that fits the size of the clogged drain and wear rubber gloves to protect your skin. Next, make sure there is water surrounding the drain so that it can create a seal.

Position the cup of the plunger directly over the drain and push down firmly. Then, pull up quickly to create suction. Repeat this pumping motion several times. If the water begins to flow properly, the clog has been dislodged. If not, try using another method or you will be calling a plumber in Melbourne to help.

2. Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal is a kitchen essential that saves you time and effort, but only if you use it correctly. Many homeowners create clogs within their disposal or in the drain pipes connected to it by improper use.

Experts agree that fats, oils, and grease (what the plumbing industry calls FOGs) should never be put down a disposal or any drain in your home. These liquids congeal when they cool, creating a thick coating that lines the walls of your pipes and causing them to clog over time.

To prevent these clogs, use a plunger to pump and break up the clump of food waste. If that doesn’t work, pour boiling water down the drain to melt any remaining grease. Then, use a natural cleaner made with baking soda and vinegar.

3. Coat Hanger

Hair, food particles, soap scum and other debris can bind together to create a clog that slows or stops water flow. To dislodge this gunk, use a wire coat hanger as a DIY hook. Straighten the hanger and bend one end to a small hook shape. Gently “fish” the hook into your drain, using prodding and “hooking” motions to help break up and extract the clog. Afterward, run hot water through your pipes to ensure it’s completely clear.

Coke is a lesser-known fix, but it works! Pour a 2-liter bottle of soda (or any other carbonated drink) down your clogged drain to create a chemical reaction. Like those

grade school volcanoes you used to make, it will jostle away and eat through whatever is causing your drain blockage.

4. Drain Snake

Drain snakes (also called augers) are long cables with a head designed to snag and break up clogs. You can use a small, plastic-coil snake found in hardware stores or a longer, sturdier metal model like the ones professional plumbers use. The more powerful models use a drill-like action to break up clogs and then pull them apart so they flow away.

Turn off the water supply and wear protective gear before you start snaking. You’ll need a plastic bucket, a pair of rubber gloves, and a drain snake. First, feed the snake into the drain until you feel resistance or notice that the clog is dislodging. Then, crank the handle to slowly and carefully work the snake through the clog until you’re able to pull it out.

5. Boiling Water

Boiling water is a useful tool for addressing certain types of clogs, like those caused by grease or soap scum. However, you need to be careful when handling boiling water and ensure that the conditions are right for it to work.

To use this method, first pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by an equal amount of vinegar. This should cause a vigorous bubbling reaction that works to break down the clog.

After a few minutes, pour the pot of boiling water down the drain. Do this in stages, and be sure to keep your face and body away from the drain to avoid burns. If the clog persists, try different methods or call a professional to help.