Home remedies for blocked pipes: what really helps?
- Martin Schlaffer
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 30
Blocked pipes are one of the most unpleasant problems in the household. Whether caused by hair, grease or food residue - there are many causes of blockages. However, before you resort to expensive pipe cleaning products or a tradesman, there are numerous household remedies that can help with mild to moderate blockages. In this blog post, we'll show you which home remedies are really effective and how you can clear your pipes quickly.
✅ If you need help quickly, you can find all the information about our Berlin drain cleaning emergency services on our AAA-Abfluss homepage.

1. Boiling water
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. If the pipe is only slightly blocked, boiling water can often be enough to clear the blockage. Simply pour a pot of boiling water down the drain and wait a few minutes. The hot water will help loosen grease, soap scum and other debris that could be causing the blockage.
Tip: Repeat the process several times if necessary. However, make sure that you pour the water slowly and in small quantities so that the pipes are not damaged.
Would you like to know how you can easily save water with the help of efficient pipe systems? Then take a look at our blog article “Save water with efficient pipe systems”.

2. Baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are true all-rounders in the household - and they can also work wonders on blocked pipes. The duo causes a chemical reaction that dissolves deposits and cleans the pipe. Here's how it works:
Pour about 100 grams of baking soda into the blocked drain.
Then pour 200 ml of vinegar down it.
Close the drain with a plug or cloth and leave the mixture to work for about 30 minutes.
Then rinse with hot water.
The reaction of baking soda and vinegar builds up pressure, which can loosen the blockage.

3. Baking soda and lemon juice as a home remedy for blocked pipes
Another natural way to clean clogged pipes is to combine baking soda and lemon juice. Baking soda works in a similar way to baking powder, while lemon juice provides additional acidity to dissolve grease and deposits.
Simply add 100 grams of baking soda to the drain and pour the juice of a fresh lemon down it. Leave the mixture to work for an hour and then rinse with hot water.

4. Washing-up liquid and hot water
For grease deposits, a mixture of washing-up liquid and hot water is an effective solution. The washing-up liquid helps to dissolve the grease, while the hot water flushes the drain. Add a generous squirt of washing-up liquid to the drain and then slowly pour in hot water. Repeat this process if necessary.
5. Plunger
The classic plunger is a tried and tested tool against blocked pipes and a good alternative to chemical agents. Make sure that the drain is completely covered and then start pumping vigorously. The resulting pressure can loosen the blockage. This trick works particularly well for blockages caused by hair or small foreign objects.
Tip: Make sure you use the plunger correctly and seal the drain completely to build up maximum pressure.
6. Pipe cleaning spiral
If the household remedies mentioned above are not enough, a pipe cleaning spiral can help. This spiral is available from DIY stores and helps to loosen stubborn blockages mechanically. It is inserted into the drain and rotates to remove deposits or blockages. Note that this method requires a little manual dexterity, but can be very effective for deep-seated blockages.

7. Prevention is better than repair
To prevent future blockages, it is advisable to take a few simple precautions. Make sure that no hair, food residue or grease gets into the drain. If necessary, install a hair strainer in the shower or sink to catch hair and larger particles. Clean your pipes regularly with hot water or a mild cleaning solution to prevent deposits.
You can find more tips on prevention in our blog post “The 10 most common causes of blocked drains - and how to avoid them”.
Conclusion on home remedies for blocked pipes
Home remedies for blocked pipes can be a simple and inexpensive solution in many cases. From hot water, baking soda and vinegar to the classic plunger, there are numerous methods that can help to clear blockages.
It is important that you do not hesitate to seek professional help for stubborn blockages. Book your appointment now!
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