Cleaning out the sink drain is a task many people overlook, but it is important to do at least once a month to prevent serious clogs and keep the water draining smoothly. Drains often become blocked because bits of food and soap go down the pipes every day, which will gradually build up into a greasy, slimy layer inside the plug. 

If the drain is not cleaned regularly, this buildup can eventually cause a full blockage and can also attract flies into the kitchen in summer, where they can even start laying eggs. However, cleaners at Bright and Beautiful explained that getting rid of small clog builds-ups is easy and takes only a few minutes - and all you really need is a box of soda crystals.

They said: ”There's no need to call a plumber for most ordinary or non-severe blockages. Try pouring boiling water down the sink, once it has drained away, fill a mug with soda crystals and pour it down the plughole.”

Soda crystals, also known as washing soda, are small white crystals that are environmentally friendly and one of the most effective natural ways to dissolve grease.

They are an alkaline product, which means they can break down acidic substances such as grease, soap residue, and food scraps that often form a sticky layer inside pipes.

Using soda crystals can help clear minor clogs, keep your pipes clean to prevent future blockages, and also keep your sink smelling fresh by neutralising unpleasant odours.

It is very common to see white vinegar and baking soda recommended on social media for clearing drain clogs, but when these two substances are mixed, they fizz and actually neutralise each other’s cleaning power. 

Baking soda is alkaline as well and can help dissolve grease, but soda crystals are much stronger and will be more effective at clearing pipes quickly.

How to clear and unblock drains with soda crystals

You will need:

• Soda crystals (can be found in the cleaning aisle of most supermarkets)
• A kettle 

Method:

To begin, fill your kettle up fully and let it boil, then carefully pour the hot water down the sink. 

This is done to loosen up the grease sitting in the drain and the heat will help make the soda crystals more effective. 

Next, open a the soda crystals and pour around 100g directly down the plughole as well. Let the soda crystals sit for at least five minutes to give them time to break down the grease. 

Then, fill up the kettle again and once it has boiled pour down the sink again. This flushes up out the now loose grease and organic matter to clear the pipe. 

Your sink drain should now be completely unblocked and cleared of any grease. Make sure to clean it out regularly to keep flies away and keep your water draining properly.