If your kitchen sink is clogged, you may be tempted to reach for the Drano. But before you do, consider this: Many plumbers will tell you not to use drain cleaners like Drano in your plumbing. Here’s why:
Drano is a caustic chemical. That means it can eat through skin and cause serious burns. If it comes into contact with your eyes, it could permanently damage your vision. And if you accidentally swallow some, it could burn your throat and esophagus.
Even if you use Drano correctly, there’s a risk that the chemical reaction will generate enough heat to crack your pipes. That could lead to an expensive repair bill – or even a flood in your home.
If you have a slow drain, there are safer and more effective ways to clear it than using harsh chemicals. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes, then run hot water down the drain to flush away any remaining residue.