The Best Drain Cleaners
From hair to grease to food debris, there are dozens of things that can cause clogs. But you don't have to continue suffering from backed-up sinks, tubs, and toilets. Finding the right drain cleaner will transform your cleaning routine and help you ensure that nothing gets stuck. From monthly maintenance to powerful one-time cleaners, check out our top picks. They'll get your water draining properly in no time.
Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover
This formula will cut through standing water and clear out clogs in your bathtubs, shower, or sink. The thick gel will get rid of the toughest clogs of hair or build-up in your pipes so that water can get through and won’t cause backups. It’s even safe to use on PVC, metal pipes, garbage disposals, and septic systems for a one-stop way to clear any drain. Just pour it into your drain, wait up to 30 minutes, and rinse it away for a no-stress and low-maintenance option.
Pros:
- You can use it on PVC, metal pipes, garbage disposals, and septic systems.
- The gel can be used in all types of drains, including tubs, showers, and sinks.
- Thanks to the 80-ounce capacity, you can use this bottle multiple times.
Cons:
- It has a very strong chemical odor.
- You may need to use the product a few times to clear very tough clogs.
Affresh Garbage Disposal Cleaner
At your disposal
Instead of putting up with smelly and clogged disposals, opt for this cleaner. Each scented tablet is formulated to clean unwanted residue from your disposal. By creating a scrubbing action within the disposal—combined with powerful foaming—the cleaner is tough on grease and odor-causing particles. It even has a fresh citrus scent that will leave your disposal smelling new.
Pros:
- Just add a tablet to the disposal and run it for 30 seconds to get it clean in no time.
- The citrus scent is a fresh, clean, and pleasant odor.
- It’s the recommended cleaning by leading manufacturers like Whirlpool and Kitchen Aid.
Cons:
- Each box only contains three tablets.
Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover
Add this drain cleaner to your monthly home maintenance routine. Designed to clear any current clogs and prevent future build-up, it’s the perfect way to keep all of your sinks and showers free of unwanted water. The cleaner also includes powerful enzymes that will help get rid of odor, bugs, and other nasty side effects. That way, you can feel confident your pipes are getting clear for improved water flow and added peace of mind.
Pros:
- Each bottle has 64 ounces, so you have a plentiful supply.
- It’s safe to use on a wide range of pipes.
- You can use it as a preventative cleaner to keep drains clear, even before there’s a clog.
Cons:
- Once you use the product, you can’t use the drain for six hours.
- For stubborn clogs, you need to treat the drain three days in a row.
Rejuvenate Garbage Disposal and Drain Pipe Cleaner
In the clear
These scented pods are simple to use for cleaner and odor-free drains. Simply throw one down the drain, run hot water, turn your disposal on for 10 seconds, and be wowed by the results. The foaming formula grips onto grime and clogs to clear them from the drain, allowing for better water flow and preventing unwanted odor. You can even use them with a septic system for maximum versatility.
Pros:
- Choose from a lemon or lavender scent for a fresher smell.
- The pods work in just a few seconds for cleaner drains, faster.
- Each pod helps to breakdown leftover food waste to prevent unwanted odors.
Cons:
- They’re designed for disposals and won’t work on all drains.
- You should use them weekly to maintain a clear drain.
Liquid Fire Drain Line Opener
Here, there, and everywhere
Get professional results right at home. With Liquid Fire, you can clean shower stalls, sinks, tubs, toilets, septic tanks, and more for an all-purpose cleaner you’ll love. Simply pour it into a clogged or slow drain, and the cleaner creates heat that works fast and is effective at opening the pip for better water flow. You can even use it in freezing weather to chemically heat the drain and melt ice for a dual-purpose solution.
Pros:
- It won’t harm PVC or steel pipes for added versatility.
- The formula is extra thick, so it clings to pipes to help get rid of clogs faster.
- You can also use it during cold weather to open frozen pipes.
Cons:
- It has an unpleasant chemical odor.
Our Tips and Tricks
Drain cleaner is usually an alkaline-based product that will unclog your sinks, toilets, and tubs. The powerful ingredients will break down matter stuck in the pipes, like hair, food remnants, or grease, and are heavier than water. This ensures that they can move through standing water and flow through the drain to clear clogs more effectively. For especially tough clogs, we recommend using drain cleaners in addition to drain snakes, which feed down into pipes to get at difficult-to-reach spots and can be operated by hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is drain cleaner an acid or a base?
Most drainer cleaners are alkaline and have a very high pH rating, making them a base. But it’s important to check the label of any product you buy to ensure it’s safe to use in your home.
Does drain cleaner dissolve hair?
Chemical drain cleaners are designed to dissolve hair stuck in your pipes. Most cleaners contain alkaline-based ingredients like lye that will cause the hair to break down, allowing the drain to become clear.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.