How to Fix a Clogged Drain Without a Plunger
If you ever get caught in a situation where the drain is clogged and you can’t find a plunger, perhaps these helpful tips will do the trick!
Boiling Water
Boiling water is a simple and effective way to unclog a drain. Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain and wait for a few minutes. The heat from the water should help to break up the clog and reduce any build-up of grease or soap scum.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
This combination is a classic method for unclogging drains. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain. Then, mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar together and pour the mixture down the drain. Leave it for 10-15 minutes before flushing it with hot water.
Wire Hanger
Take a wire hanger and straighten it out. Then, create a hook at one end and use it to try and dislodge the clog. Be careful not to push the clog further down the drain.
Makeshift Plunger
Simply gather a plastic bag, a rubber band, and a cup of hot water. Next, place the plastic bag over the clogged drain, then secure it with the rubber band. Pour the hot water into the plastic bag, so that it covers the drain (oven mitts are recommended). Allow the hot water to sit for a few minutes. Grab the plastic bag at the top and twist it as if it were a plunger. Quickly yank the bag up, breaking the seal and allowing the water to drain out. You may need to do this a couple of times.
Hand Cup
If you don’t have any of the above resources to do the trick, you can always roll up your sleeves, and cup one hand over the other to mimic a plunger. Pushing your hands up and down over the drain to create suction. With luck, the clog might be weak enough to break loose.
Drain Snake
If all else fails, you may need to use a drain snake to try and remove the clog. A drain snake is a long, flexible metal rod with a spiral end that is inserted into the drain to try and break up the clog.