This is a good question. Sometimes the best way to fix a problem is avoiding having a problem in the first place. Avoid letting FOG (Fats, Oils and Grease) down the drains. Hot FOG cool down in pipes and create clogs needing future drain cleaning appointments. When using a food waste disposal, leave water running for 30 seconds to push debris through. Use a sink/tub drain to catch food scraps and hair before it gets a chance to clump up with FOG that may have drained into your homes pipes. When a problem does occur using a drain unblocker can be an easy and cost-effective solution for drainage issues.
NOTE: Call a plumbing professional if the task proves to be too difficult to handle or worsens. In some cases it pays to be wise and seek professional consultation to avoid damaging your home pipelines and septic tanks. It may be tempting to DIY fix your home drains, however its more complicated than just picking the first cleaner you see. Many acid-based drain cleaners can damage metal components and drain finishes. Some even emit toxic fumes that irritate your skin, lungs and eyes.
Here are the best drain cleaners you can buy for your needs.
Best Drain Cleaner for Hair Clogs: Whink Hair Clog Blaster
A perfect cleaner for soaps and hair clumps. Whink Hair Clog Blaster is a liquid drain opener that contains sodium hydroxide(lye), and other chemicals specialized to eat soap, hair and other bathroom debris. Whink’s is safe for all plumbing and septic systems. Wear gloves when using, lye is highly corrosive and can damage your skin.
Pros: Specialized for soap and hair clogs, affordable
Cons: Dangerous and caustic, poor grease cleaner
Best Drain Cleaner for Grease Clogs: Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolvers
The Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver works well for most situations but shines in grease and oil clogs. It’s easy to use and uses an enzyme formula that’s safer for drains.
Pros: Great for grease and oil clogs, enzyme cleaner, drain-safe, easy to use
Cons: Weaker than other drain cleaners
Best Non-Chemical Drain Clogs: CLR Power Plumber
CLR Power Plumber is the modern answer for those that worry about chemical pollutants seeping into the environment. Similar to a conventional plunger, the Power Plumber uses a compressed gas canister to push blockages through backed up pipes without the mess. Doesn’t hurt that it also has a delightful fresh lemon scent.
Pro: No chemicals, cost-effective by volume
Cons: Difficult to find, less cost-effective than a conventional plunger
Best Preventive Drain Cleaner: CLR Build-Up Remover
The CLR Build-Up Remover is a great addition to your clog preventative routine. It can be used not only as preventative but as a wonderful unclogger. CLR Build-Up Remover is septic-safe, non-corrosive and environmentally-friendly.
Pros: Odor removing, environmentally friendly, septic-safe, excellent preventative
Cons: Weaker than other drain cleaners
Best Non-Chemical Hair Clog Preventer: TubShroom Strainer and Hair Catcher
This is an excellent solution for an environmentally-safe hair clog preventative. The TubShroom fits neatly into any standard 1.5-inch to 1.75-inch bathroom drains and is easy to clean.
Pros: Excellent hair clog preventative, 1-time purchase with long life-span, comes in many colors and sizes
Cons: Requires frequent cleanings, reduces water drainage