| Method | Best For | Speed | Safety | Pipe Risk | Cost | |--------|----------|-------|--------|-----------|------| | Plunger | Soft clogs (toilet, sink) | Instant | Very safe | None | $0 | | Drain snake / auger | Solid obstructions (tampons, toys, roots) | 5-20 min | Low (manual) | Low | Moderate | | Caustic soda (NaOH) | Grease, hair, soap | 30-60 min | | Moderate (heat/corrosion) | Low | | Sulfuric acid drain cleaner | Paper, organic matter | 15 min | Extreme risk | High (eats pipes) | Moderate | | Enzymatic cleaner | Maintenance of slow drains | Hours-days | Very safe | None | Moderate |
Unblocking Drains with Caustic Soda: A Complete Guide Caustic soda—formally known as ( NaOHcap N a cap O cap H caustic soda unblocking drains
– the chemical can splash back under pressure. | Method | Best For | Speed |
Caustic soda is ineffective against inorganic blockages (sand, gravel, scale, rust, or small solid objects). or small solid objects).