While not a cure for every type of blockage (like a solid object or tree root intrusion), the combination of baking soda and salt creates a powerful physical and chemical reaction that effectively breaks down the most common cause of household clogs: (food particles, hair, and dead skin cells).

Disclaimer: Always test on a small area if you have antique or unusual pipes. If the clog persists after three attempts, consult a professional plumber to avoid worsening the problem.

Mix the 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of salt in a bowl. Pour the dry mixture directly down the clogged drain. Try to get it as far down the pipe as possible. If you have a double sink, cover the other drain with a wet cloth to force the mixture down the clogged side.

A slow-draining sink or a completely clogged pipe is a universal household frustration. Before you reach for a harsh chemical drain cleaner—which is packed with toxic fumes and can corrode your pipes—look in your kitchen pantry. Two common, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly ingredients, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and salt (sodium chloride) , can often solve the problem.