Also, does anyone else wonder if baking soda and vinegar actually do much for clogs, or is it more about keeping things fresh?
Honestly, I think the fizz looks impressive but doesn’t do much for stubborn clogs. If you’re dealing with a slow drain, I’d rather grab the plunger than trust kitchen science. As for mesh catchers, I’ve had the same struggle—one was so flimsy it folded in half after a week. Anyone ever try those silicone ones with the weird “flower” design? Wondering if they actually stay put or just look fancy.
Honestly, I think the fizz looks impressive but doesn’t do much for stubborn clogs.
I’ve seen a lot of folks try the baking soda and vinegar trick, and honestly, it’s more like a science fair volcano than a real fix. It might help with odors or very minor gunk, but for anything tougher, you’re better off with a plunger or even a little hand snake. As for those silicone “flower” catchers—tried one at my sister’s place. Looked cute but kept floating around instead of staying put. Not sure if it was user error or just bad design...
- Totally get what you mean about the fizz—looks cool, but doesn’t really cut it for anything serious.
- For stubborn clogs, I’ve had way better luck with a cheap hand auger. Costs less than a plumber visit and works on most stuff.
- Those silicone catchers... yeah, they’re hit or miss. I tried one that kept floating too. Ended up switching to a metal mesh one—stays put and catches more hair.
- Don’t feel bad if the DIY tricks don’t work every time. Sometimes you just need the right tool for the job.
For stubborn clogs, I’ve had way better luck with a cheap hand auger. Costs less than a plumber visit and works on most stuff.
Hand augers are solid, but just a heads up—always wear gloves and go slow, especially if you’re not sure what’s down there. I’ve seen people jam them in too hard and end up damaging the pipe or getting the cable stuck. Also, after using one, run hot water for a few minutes to flush out any leftover gunk. Metal mesh catchers are my go-to too... those silicone ones just float around and don’t do much.
I get the appeal of hand augers, but honestly, I try to avoid them unless it’s a last resort. Pipes in older houses (like mine) just aren’t built for that kind of abuse, even if you’re careful. I’ve seen neighbors end up with leaks after getting a little too enthusiastic with the crank.
Metal mesh catchers are my go-to too... those silicone ones just float around and don’t do much.
Funny, I actually had the opposite experience. The silicone ones I use have a weighted rim and they stay put way better than the cheap mesh ones that always seem to rust or get gross fast. Maybe it depends on the brand? Either way, prevention’s way easier than snaking out a clog. I swear by pouring boiling water and baking soda down the drain every couple weeks—keeps things moving without harsh chemicals or risking pipe damage. Not perfect, but it’s worked for me so far.
