Slow and smelly drains might mean you've got yourself a partially blocked pipe. However, banishing the blockage could be more simple than you think – and there's no need for an expensive plumber.

Drains can easily become clogged with daily waste like food pieces, soap scum and hair, inevitably leading to a build-up of debris down the pipes.

But cleaning experts at Bright and Beautiful revealed an effect alternative to chemical cleaners, baking soda, or white vinegar.

While white vinegar and baking soda are popular cleaning combinations, the mixture may not be strong enough to tackle greasy residue that builds up in household pipes.

The experts at Bright and Beautiful said: "There's no need to call a plumber for most ordinary or non-severe blockages."

They suggested: "Try pouring boiling water down the sink; once it has drained away, fill a mug with soda crystals and pour it down the plughole."

Highly alkaline, soda crystals are great at cutting through grime and fat, which can then clear the drains.

Plus, soda crystals are also great at breaking down organic matter, such as hair, which can otherwise clump together in bathroom sinks.

To unclog drains with soda crystals, first pour boiled water down the affected drains.

Then take a mug of soda crystals and pour the alkaline solution down the drain. Allow the soda crystals to settle for five to 10 minutes to dissolve the greasy blockage.

Then boil the kettle once more and slowly pour the hot water down the drain, flushing out the soda crystals along with the disintegrated grease and fat.

The expert advised: "To be extra sure your blockage has completely gone, empty a full kettle of hot water down the sink."

The steps might need to be repeated for the best results; if, however, there is a full blockage, you might need to seek professional help via a plumber.