Brits are being urged to use a simple household remedy this winter to help prevent blocked drains as plunging temperatures increase the risk of bathroom pipe problems. Home maintenance experts say pouring vinegar, often combined with baking soda, down shower and sink drains can help keep water flowing freely during the colder months, when hair, soap scum and congealed oils harden more quickly inside pipes.
The advice echoes guidance shared by plumbing firm Harmony at Home, which explains that the classic combination of baking soda and vinegar creates a powerful foaming reaction. This fizzy burst releases carbon dioxide, which builds pressure in the drain and can help dislodge small blockages close to the pipe opening.
According to experts, the method is most effective for minor clogs caused by everyday bathroom debris.
In winter, showers tend to shed more hair as people wash less frequently and experience increased seasonal shedding, while colder water temperatures can cause oils and soap residue to thicken, making blockages more common.
To try the remedy, homeowners are advised to remove any standing water first, pour one cup of baking soda directly into the drain, then immediately add one cup of vinegar.
Cover the drain with a plug to trap the pressure and hold it in place for at least a minute to maximise the reaction. The bubbling mixture can help loosen build-up and improve flow.
However, experts warn that while this DIY fix can help with surface-level obstructions, it will not solve deeper or more serious issues.
If a blockage is located more than 18 inches down the pipe, or if multiple drains in the home are slow or clogged at once, the problem is likely further along the system, potentially in the main sewer line.
In those cases, no amount of vinegar, baking soda or chemical cleaners will clear the issue, and professional intervention is required.
Plumbers say that winter is one of their busiest seasons for callouts, with temperature drops causing pipes to contract and debris to harden, increasing the likelihood of disruptions.
They encourage homeowners to see the vinegar trick as a preventative measure rather than a cure-all.
Signs that it’s time to call a professional include recurring clogs, foul smells coming from drains, gurgling noises, or water backing up into sinks or showers.
Plumbers equipped with specialist rooter machines can safely break down stubborn blockages and restore proper flow.
