How to Clear a Clogged Drain

Here's the magic recipe for clear drains: boiling water, baking soda, and white vinegar.

Seriously, these pantry finds do the trick. Make it a habit to pour boiling water down your drains every week or so; it helps melt the grease. I simply do this with the leftover hot water from my kettle when I make tea. And periodically (say, every month), disinfect your drains with this little homemade recipe:

1. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of white vinegar (pour the vinegar down slowly as it will start to fizz up.)

2. Cover the drain and let it sit for a few minutes.

3. Then pour about a gallon of boiling water down the drain.

If you like to leave behind a fresh scent in your drains, I love Fresh Wave's Multi-Purpose Additive, which is made of natural plant oils. I pour a little down the drain, and this green cleaner does an amazing job of eliminating odors.

P.S. This drain solution is for maintaining drains that are relatively clear to start. If you have standing water already in your sink or tub, you'll first need to roll up your sleeves and grab the plunger.