Columbia, SC Drain Cleaning Guide: Methods, Tips & Solutions

A clogged or slow-moving drain can quickly become a frustrating household issue. Whether it’s a smelly sink, a sluggish shower drain, or a backed-up toilet, taking proactive steps to clean and maintain your drains can help prevent plumbing emergencies.

While some drain unblocking can be tackled with simple do-it-yourself solutions, it’s important to understand that different drains require different approaches. If home remedies don’t work, calling a professional drain cleaning service in Columbia, SC, may be the best solution.

Below, we’ll cover effective DIY drain cleaning solutions for sinks, showers, and toilets, along with when to call a plumber for expert help.

How to Clean Your Smelly Sink Drain

Your kitchen sink is one of the hardest-working drains in your home, and food particles, grease, and soap residue can cause buildup over time. If your sink drain starts to emit unpleasant odors, follow these steps to freshen it up:

Preventative Tips

• Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, and food scraps down the drain.
• Run hot water after using the sink to help flush away debris.
• Regularly clean the drain with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

DIY Drain Cleaner Instructions

1. Boiling Water Method: Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to dissolve grease and loosen minor clogs.
2. Baking Soda & Vinegar: Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for about 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
3. Lemon & Ice Cube Trick: If your sink has a garbage disposal, drop in some ice cubes and a few lemon peels. Run the disposal to help eliminate odors and sharpen the blades.

If your sink remains clogged or continues to smell bad, you may need professional drain cleaning. Cassell offers expert solutions to remove deep clogs and prevent future drain clogs.

How to Clean a Stinky Shower Drain

Soap scum, hair, and dirt buildup can lead to slow-draining and foul-smelling showers. A clogged shower drain can quickly turn into standing water issues, so maintaining a clean and free-flowing system is crucial.

Preventative Tips

• Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris.
• Flush the drain with hot water once a week to minimize buildup.
• Avoid washing excess oils and lotions down the drain, as they contribute to blockages.

DIY Drain Cleaner Instructions

1. Remove Debris: If water drains slowly, remove the drain cover and use a wire hanger or drain snake to remove hair and buildup.
2. Baking Soda & Vinegar Solution: Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
3. Use a Plunger: If the clog is persistent, try using a plunger with firm, repetitive motions to dislodge the blockage.

Clogged Toilet Repair and Cleaning

Few household plumbing issues are as urgent as a clogged toilet. While a plunger is often the go-to tool, some blockages require extra effort to clear.

Preventative Tips

• Only flush toilet paper and waste. Do not flush wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products.
• Keep a small wastebasket in the bathroom to prevent accidental flushing of non-flushable items.
• Regularly clean the toilet to prevent buildup inside the drain.

DIY Drain Cleaner Instructions

1. Plunge Correctly: Use a high-quality plunger with a flange. Ensure a tight seal around the drain and use firm, forceful plunges.
2. Hot Water & Dish Soap: Pour a small amount of dish soap into the bowl, followed by a bucket of hot water. The soap can help break down the clog.
3. Use a Toilet Auger: If plunging doesn’t work, a toilet auger (also known as a closet auger) can reach deeper into the drain to break up blockages.

If none of these methods work, your plumbing system may have a more serious obstruction.

Drain Cleaning Plumbing Services in Columbia, SC

While DIY drain cleaning methods can help with minor clogs and odors, some plumbing issues require professional expertise. If you’re experiencing persistent clogs, slow drainage, or foul odors that won’t go away, it may be time to call a drain cleaning specialist. Cassell Brothers is available for 24/7 Emergency Plumbing Repairs in South Carolina.

At Cassell, we provide expert drain cleaning services to help SC Midlands homeowners maintain healthy and efficient plumbing systems. Our team uses advanced tools such as hydro jetting, drain snaking, and now even plumbing camera inspections to remove blockages safely and effectively.

Why Choose Cassell for Drain Cleaning?

• Experienced and licensed plumbers
• Advanced drain cleaning technology
• Safe and eco-friendly cleaning methods
• Fast and reliable service in Columbia, SC

If you need professional drain cleaning or suspect a severe clog, don’t hesitate to contact Cassell today. We’re here to keep your plumbing system in top shape.