DIY Drain Cleaning Hack that Saves You $$$
- Joaby Parker
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
Slow-draining sinks and tubs are more than just an inconvenience—they’re a warning sign that gunk is building up inside your pipes. The good news? You don’t need to call a plumber every time your drain gets sluggish. In this Wrench Warriors DIY guide, we’ll show you how to use Thrift—a powerful, easy-to-use drain cleaner—to keep water flowing freely and your plumbing in top shape.
Why We Love Thrift
Thrift is our go-to product for sinks and tubs that still have some water movement but are clogged with hair, toothpaste, beard trimmings, and other debris. Unlike many store-bought drain cleaners, Thrift activates with hot water, creating a chemical reaction that eats away at buildup fast.
It comes in multiple sizes, but we recommend keeping a 2 lb bottle at home. Store it safely away from kids, and you’ll always be ready for a quick fix.
When NOT to Use Thrift
If your sink or tub is completely backed up with zero drainage, Thrift won’t be able to travel down to the clog. In that case, you’ll need to take an extra step first (we’ve got a separate tutorial for that). Once you’ve got even a little movement, you’re ready to go.
Step-by-Step: Clearing a Slow Drain with Thrift
Prep Your Sink or Tub
Fill it with hot water to warm up the gunk inside the pipes. This helps Thrift work faster and more effectively.
Measure Your Thrift
Use about ½ cup to 1 cup to start.
Ventilate Your Space
Turn on your bathroom fan or crack a window. Thrift produces a strong odor when activated.
Keep your head back and avoid inhaling the fumes. Wear safety glasses if you have them.
Activate with Hot Water
Pour Thrift directly into the drain.
Immediately follow with hot water—you’ll hear it sizzle as it starts working.
Repeat if Needed
Most drains take 2–3 rounds to fully clear, but stubborn clogs might need more.
Always test with hot water between rounds to keep the reaction going.
Finish with a Clean Rinse
Once the drain is clear, turn on cold water. Add a generous amount of hand soap and wash out the sink and drain area.
This deactivates the Thrift and prevents it from damaging your sink’s finish.
The Results
In just about 5 minutes, you’ll have a sink or tub draining like new—without touching a single pipe or getting your hands dirty.
Final Tip
Thrift isn’t just a one-time fix. Keep it on hand, and you can tackle slow drains before they turn into full clogs. That means fewer plumbing bills and a happier home.
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