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Freshen a smelly, slightly slow drain with baking soda and vinegar

Good for odors and mild slowdowns. For a real clog, use a plunger.

CleaningTakes 20 minutesCosts under $1

Updated October 24, 2026

How to do it

0 of 5 steps done

Tap each step as you finish it.

1Run hot tap water down the drain for a minute.
2Pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
3Follow it with 1 cup of white vinegar. It will fizz.
4Cover the drain with a plug or a wet cloth and wait 15 minutes.
5Flush with very hot tap water and a squirt of dish soap.

Good to knowUse it now and then, not every week: frequent use can wear down rubber seals. If water barely drains, use a plunger for 30 to 60 seconds, and call a plumber if clogs keep coming back. Never mix it with store-bought drain cleaner.

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