Why You Shouldn’t Use Liquid Chemical Drain Cleaners

Today we’re talking about the use of liquid chemical drain cleaners and why we believe they’re a bad idea. When your drains are clogged up it’s almost second nature to think that a liquid drain cleaner is the answer. After all, it’s quick, efficient and easy to use – so why shouldn’t you use it?

Liquid chemical drain cleaners for more substantial blockages aren’t really that useful.

Well, you’re right in thinking they’re quick, efficient and easy to use, however they’re not as effective as you’d like to believe. If you have a potential clog that’s more than a few hairs or a bit of food, it’s more than likely that drain cleaner won’t help at all. It’s much more effective to try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake, you’ll probably get better results. 

Brand drain cleaners or non-brand cleaners – they’re toxic, and that’s a no-brainer.

There’s something else to consider too. Chemicals which are used to make drain cleaners are extremely poisonous and toxic. This is especially true if you’re using cheap ones that don’t come from a well-known brand. And what’s more, they can remain in your drain long after it’s clear, causing more irritation with the smell they leave behind.

Strong, toxic chemicals.

Also, consider that a drain cleaner can damage your pipes because the chemicals used are very strong, where the majority use a substance known as hydrochloric acid. This is a toxic solution which can erode the lining of your pipes, and that can be very expensive to repair. 

To summarise, here are the main reasons why using a drainage clear for drain unblocking is a bad idea:

  • They’re not really effective and won’t necessarily remove what’s blocking it, and this is especially true if there’s a more substantial blockage

  • Due to the chemicals they contain, they can be extremely toxic, especially non-brand varieties

  • It’s likely that these type of liquid chemical drain cleaners can be harmful to the environment

  • You’ll probably get better results using a plunger or a plumber’s snake.


East of Scotland Drainage – for fast, effective and efficient unblocking of your drains.

If you have require pipe or drain unblocking why not give us a call. We’re here to help and one of our expert team members are always on hand to advise. We can send someone over to make a quick assessment and diagnosis, and then come up with solution that will get your drains working in next to no time. If you have a problem with your drains, give us a call today, don’t leave it until it becomes a major problem, deal with it now and it’ll be less expensive to clear.