Here are a few natural drain cleaners that are better for your plumbing system and safer for you and your family. Plunger: A drain plunger should be your first plan of attack when water starts to back up. Drain snake: If you have a drain snake on hand, and a plunger won't do the trick, this should be your plan b. Coat hanger: Sometimes a coat hanger may be all you need to unclog the drain. Baking soda and vinegar: Pour ½ cup of baking soda followed by ½ cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for about an hour, then wash it all down with a pot of hot water.