Don’t Pour Hot Water Into a Clogged Sink — Do This Instead for a Quick Fix and Fresh Smell

A clogged sink is one of the most frustrating household problems. Many instinctively reach for boiling water, but this can make things worse—especially with grease. Hot water may melt grease temporarily, only for it to solidify further down the pipe.

Here are safe, effective ways to unclog your sink and eliminate odors.

1. Rice Water and Baking Soda: A Gentle Natural Cleaner

How It Works: Rice water has natural cleaning properties. Mixed with baking soda, it creates a mild abrasive that breaks down residue and neutralizes odors.

How to Use:

Collect the cloudy water from rinsing rice.

Add baking soda and stir until dissolved.

Pour the mixture down the drain.

Let it sit and work through the blockage.

Eco-friendly and non-chemical solution.

2. Dish Detergent and Vinegar: Ideal for Grease Clogs

Why It Works: Dish detergent cuts grease, vinegar softens buildup, and warm water flushes it away.

How to Use:

Mix dish detergent with a small amount of white vinegar.

Add 3 cups of hot (not boiling) water.

Slowly pour the solution down the drain.

Great for sinks clogged with oils or fats.

3. Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Salt: Triple-Action Cleaning Mix

How to Use:

Mix equal parts baking soda and salt.

Pour into the drain.

Add 200 ml of white vinegar.

Cover the drain to trap the reaction.

Wait 1–2 hours.

Rinse with hot water.

Helps dissolve grime, remove odors, and refresh your drain.

4. Spring Wire or Metal Hook: For Solid Blockages

How to Use:

Straighten an iron wire or use a small spring wire.

Bend one end into a U-shaped hook.

Slowly insert it into the drain while rotating.

Pull up debris.

Repeat until the pipe is clear.

Physically removes hair, food scraps, or small objects without chemicals.

5. How to Prevent Future Sink Clogs

Dispose of food scraps before washing dishes.

Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink.

Use a drain filter and clean it regularly.

Flush occasionally with boiling water (only when drain is clear).

Use a wire hook for large objects that fall in.

Avoid washing mud or heavy debris down the sink.

Keep a simple drain-cleaning tool at home.

Final Thoughts:
Clearing a clogged sink doesn’t require harsh chemicals. With household ingredients, simple tools, and the right technique, you can unclog your pipes, remove bad smells, and prevent future blockages.