5 Myths About Drain Cleaning You Should Stop Believing
When it comes to keeping your home’s plumbing system healthy, few tasks are more important—and more misunderstood—than drain cleaning. Homeowners often rely on outdated advice, DIY shortcuts, or internet rumors that can actually do more harm than good. These misconceptions lead to recurring clogs, pipe damage, unnecessary expenses, and even plumbing emergencies.
To help you protect your drains, avoid costly repairs, and make informed decisions, it’s time to debunk the most common myths once and for all. Below are five of the biggest drain cleaning myths—and the real truth behind them.
Myth #1: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective
Walk down any cleaning aisle and you’ll see shelves full of chemical drain cleaners promising instant results. Many homeowners believe these products dissolve tough clogs effortlessly. But the truth is:
Chemical drain cleaners are one of the worst things you can put down your plumbing system.
These products contain harsh ingredients like lye, hydrochloric acid, or sulfuric acid. While they may clear small clogs, they do far more harm than good.
Why this myth is dangerous:
1. They damage pipes—especially older ones.
The corrosive chemicals heat up when they react with clogs. This heat can warp PVC pipes, eat through metal, and damage rubber seals.
2. They create solidified blockages.
Some cleaners work by hardening clogs, which can actually make them more difficult for plumbers to remove.
3. They are hazardous to your health.
Chemical fumes can irritate your lungs, eyes, and skin. If the chemicals splash, they can cause burns.
4. They mask the real problem.
Chemical cleaners may clear part of a clog but won’t remove the root cause—such as grease, scale, or tree roots.
The truth:
Instead of chemicals, use enzyme-based cleaners for maintenance—or call a professional for safe and effective drain cleaning.
Myth #2: A Slow Drain Isn’t a Big Deal
A slow-draining sink or shower may seem harmless. Many homeowners simply ignore it or put off dealing with it. Unfortunately, slow drains are one of the biggest early warning signs of a much deeper problem.
Why this myth is dangerous:
1. Slow drains indicate developing clogs.
Food, grease, hair, and soap scum build up little by little. Once water slows, a blockage is already forming.
2. Slow drains often signal main sewer line issues.
If multiple drains are slow at the same time, you could be dealing with root intrusion, a collapsed sewer pipe, or a major blockage.
3. Ignoring slow drains leads to sewage backups.
A small slowdown can quickly turn into an overflowing sink, shower, or toilet.
4. The longer you wait, the worse—and more expensive—the repair becomes.
Minor clogs can be cleared easily, but neglected ones may require hydro jetting or even pipe repair.
The truth:
A slow drain should always be treated as a red flag. Addressing the issue early prevents bigger plumbing disasters later on.
Myth #3: All You Need Is a Plunger or Store-Bought Snake
Plungers and DIY drain snakes are useful tools—but they are not cure-alls. Many homeowners believe they can fix any clog with a few plunges or a cheap plastic snake. While these tools can help with minor blockages, they fall short for deeper or more complex plumbing issues.
Why this myth is dangerous:
1. Plungers only work for shallow blockages.
Clogs farther down the line will not respond to pressure at the surface.
2. DIY snakes can’t reach deep clogs.
Store-bought snakes are too short and too weak to remove tough blockages, grease buildup, or tree roots.
3. Improper use can damage pipes.
Aggressive plunging or forcing a snake can crack toilet fixtures or puncture pipes.
4. They don’t clean the pipe walls.
Even if you break through a clog, buildup remains on the pipe walls and will cause future blockages.
The truth:
Professional tools—like mechanical augers and hydro jetting—go deeper, clean better, and prevent clogs from returning.
Myth #4: If Water Is Still Flowing, Your Drains Don’t Need Cleaning
Many homeowners assume that if water goes down the drain—even slowly—there’s no real issue. But functioning drains don’t always mean healthy drains.
Why this myth is dangerous:
1. Drains can be partially blocked.
A pipe can be 70% clogged and still drain water.
2. Most clogs form gradually.
By the time you notice a complete blockage, the buildup has been forming for months or even years.
3. Hidden blockages create pressure on pipes.
This can lead to leaks, cracks, or pipe bursts.
4. Internal buildup causes odors and bacteria growth.
Even if water flows, the pipe may be coated in grease, soap scum, and organic waste.
5. Sewer line issues don’t always affect every drain immediately.
Early sewer problems often appear intermittently.
The truth:
Regular drain cleaning keeps pipes clear, prevents emergencies, and safeguards your plumbing system—long before water stops flowing.
Myth #5: Professional Drain Cleaning Is Too Expensive
Some homeowners avoid calling a plumber because they assume a professional service will cost too much. In reality, professional drain cleaning saves money in the long run.
Why this myth is dangerous:
1. DIY attempts often make the problem worse.
From pipe damage to pushing the clog deeper, DIY errors can lead to bigger repairs.
2. Ignoring problems leads to emergencies.
Emergency plumbing repairs are always more expensive than routine maintenance.
3. Professionals identify the root cause—not just the clog.
A plumber may uncover issues like:
- Tree root intrusion
- Cracked pipes
- Misaligned drains
- Grease blockages
- Sewer line deterioration
Early detection prevents costly pipe replacements later.
4. Professional tools are far more effective.
Hydro jetting and camera inspections provide deep cleaning and long-lasting results—something DIY tools can’t do.
The truth:
Routine professional drain cleaning is an investment that protects your home, prevents disasters, and saves thousands in future repairs.
Why These Myths Persist
Drain cleaning myths usually stick around because:
- DIY videos oversimplify complex plumbing issues
- Chemical cleaners are marketed as “quick fixes”
- Homeowners want fast solutions
- Early warning signs are easy to ignore
- Plumbing systems are mostly hidden, so problems seem out of sight, out of mind
But falling for these myths can lead to serious plumbing damage—and expensive repairs.
How to Protect Your Home From Drain Problems
Instead of relying on outdated myths, follow these proven drain maintenance tips:
✔ Use drain strainers in sinks and showers
They catch hair, food scraps, and debris.
✔ Avoid pouring grease, oils, and fats down the drain
Grease is one of the top causes of major clogs.
✔ Rinse drains with hot water weekly
This helps reduce soap and oil buildup.
✔ Use enzyme-based cleaners monthly
They break down organic matter safely.
✔ Avoid chemical drain cleaners
They damage pipes and rarely solve the real problem.
✔ Schedule annual professional drain cleaning
This keeps pipes clear and prevents emergencies.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
You should call a plumber if:
- Water drains slowly
- Gurgling sounds come from pipes
- Multiple drains clog at once
- You smell sewage or foul odors
- DIY methods don’t work
- Toilets back up regularly
- Water pools in the yard
These are signs of a deeper issue that needs professional attention.
Conclusion
Drain cleaning is a vital part of maintaining your home’s plumbing system, but long-standing myths often lead homeowners to make harmful decisions. Chemical cleaners, ignoring slow drains, relying too heavily on plungers, or avoiding professional help can all lead to bigger problems—and higher repair bills.
By understanding the truth behind these common myths, you can protect your plumbing, avoid unnecessary damage, and keep your drains flowing smoothly year-round. When in doubt, trust a professional plumber to diagnose the problem and provide safe, effective solutions.
