How to Clear Blocked Drains Using Dawn Detergent

Quck answer

Dawn detergent can be used to unclog drains effectively. To unclog a drain, follow these simple steps:

1. Boil a pot of water.

2. Pour a cup of Dawn detergent into the drain.

3. Slowly pour the boiling water down the drain.

4. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.

5. Run hot water down the drain to flush out any remaining debris.

The Dawn detergent helps break down grease and grime, while the boiling water helps to dislodge and flush out the clog. This method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Remember to use caution when working with boiling water.


Dealing with plumbing issues, especially a blocked drain, can be a nightmare. Before scheduling an appointment with a plumber, you can try using dish or laundry detergent to unclog the drain and see if it solves the problem. While chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, they can often cause more harm than good by damaging pipes and posing safety hazards.

Avoiding Chemical Drain Cleaners

Experts advise against using chemical drain cleaners as they can harm pipes and pose safety risks. These cleaners contain acid and lye, which react when they come into contact with clogs and can lead to pipe damage. Frequent use of chemical cleaners can corrode PVC or older pipes. Additionally, these cleaners can burn your skin if accidentally exposed and inhaling their toxic fumes can be dangerous.

Advantages of Dish Detergent

The great thing about using dish detergent is that it is safe to use without much caution. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this method. If the water flow is completely blocked, dish detergent alone may not be effective. In such cases, you will need to use a snake, plunger, or other tools to remove the clog.

Another tip is that you can combine dish detergent with other mechanical methods or the baking soda and vinegar method for unclogging drains. Using Dawn dish soap to unclog drains will not corrode the pipes, allowing you to repeat the process as many times as needed. However, if you have previously used chemical drain cleaners, it is best not to use this method.

You can use different types of dishwashing liquid, but avoid using it after a chemical drain cleaner. When using the dish or laundry detergent method for a clogged drain, remember to flush the drain thoroughly with hot or boiling water. Hot water is more effective than cold water in removing clogs.

Unclogging Drains with Detergent

There are two methods to clean drain pipe buildup using hot water and liquid detergent. For the first method, boil 1 liter of water and pour it into the drain to loosen the clog. Then, add 1 cup of liquid detergent and wait a few minutes. Finally, pour another liter of boiling water into the drain. Repeat this process as necessary until the clog is removed.

For the second method, create a lather using a small amount of lukewarm water and detergent. Pour this mixture down the drain. This method is useful for mildly clogged drains and can be used regularly to prevent future clogs.

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