When it comes to unclogging the drain, the very first way anyone would consider is Drano. Because Drano is the most trusted and tested brand coming from ages in every household. But can you use Drano in a toilet?
However, this guide will help you to understand everything about Drano from its pros and cons to the best alternative tactics that you can use for unclogging your toilet. If you want to know more then keep up with our blog.
What is Drano?
Since 1920, Drano has been floating in the market. Over the years, Drano has made a good market for itself. Drano is a tough chemical used for ages to clean clogged toilets and Drains. Basically, used for the clogs done by human waste.
It’s based on sodium hydroxide, sodium nitrate, sodium chloride (salt), sodium hypochlorite (bleach), and aluminum. which causes a chemical reaction that further dissolves the clog and results in a clog-free toilet. However, it is formulated for sinks and kitchen drains but can also be used in toilet drains.
Can You Use Drano In a Toilet?
Can I use Drano in toilet? The answer to this is very simple, No. You should not use Drano in toilets as they can be very abrasive and harmful to your pipes and to the drainage system. When you pour Drano into your toilet seat. Sodium starts combining with aluminum shards which creates an oxidizing chemical. further, It starts heating up almost at the boiling temperature. That helps to clear the clog more efficiently. But when it starts getting harmful to your toilet? Read on to know more about it.
In the further section, we are going to talk about all the pros and cons that you must consider before you head toward the shop to buy another Drano bottle for your clogged toilet. So let’s get into it.
The Pros:
Easy to Use
You don’t need professionals or other special skills to clear your clog. You would just need to open the bottle and pour it directly into the drain. Unlike another method to unclog Drano is easy to use but has some downsides as well just read along to know.
Inexpensive
Removing clogs with Drano is really very affordable. Suppose, If you call some professional plumber to clear the clog then it would definitely cost you high. Instead, if you buy a Dtrano that would hardly cost you 10 bucks which is very less than any other means.
Works well in Sinks and Bathrooms
Drano is specifically made for kitchen sinks and bathroom drains. However, it works diligently if used in the clogs done by the hair, food waste, and greases. Sink drains and Kitchen drains are often clogged and Drano would be the best clog cleaner in these cases.
The Cons:
It Can’t Clear Every Type of Clog
What if Clog doesn’t get clear after the use of Drano in toilet? The most likely question that comes up in your mind while using. As we have mentioned above, Drano is only useful in human waste clogs. If you are using a toilet with solid waste clogs then it would be a little difficult to get rid of them.
Not Appropriate for Toilet
Toilet drains and pipes are made up of porcelain which is very likely to get damaged if you use tough chemicals. More often toilet drains are clogged with solid waste that is hard to clear away. However, Chemicals are heavier than water so they sit down and don’t work well.
Cause Chemical Burns
Drano is made up of Sodium and aluminum shards when it comes into the air reacts as a highly oxidizing chemical, heated up almost at a boiling temperature which can cause burning. If you don’t take precautionary measures for yourself then it can irritate your eyes and even if you touch the formed bubbles it can burn your skin as well.
Can Damage Your Pipes
The chemical reaction that breaks up in the clog is highly reactive and it can damage your pipe fittings. It can soften the PVC pipes and if your drain is already corroded then it can get worse.
Can Create More Clogs
After every use Drano leaves some residue that builds up in grease and becomes harder to remove. So remember don’t use Drano frequently.
Read, also- 6 Methods How to Plunge a Toilet With a Toilet Plunger
Warnings To Consider
Can you put Drano in a toilet? Drano is a really very dangerous chemical and it is advised to take some precautionary measures before you use it. We are listing below some of the most important warnings that you must consider.
- Don’t use Drano if you have a septic system.
- Cover yourself properly while using Drano.
- Never pour the remaining specks of Drano from your Toilet into garbage bins.
- If your Drain is completely blocked then you must not use any sort of chemical. It can make the situation worse.
- Keep the bottle of the Drano away from your kids and pets.
Alternative of Drano
You are here, it means you have got a fair insight into Drano and the answer to the question “can I use Drano in the toilet“. So, if you are dealing with a clogged toilet then you must look for alternative methods to clear that clogging. However, the further section is ready for you with substitutes that you can use in your toilets without even harming pipes and fittings.
Plunger
The plunger has always been an opener for drain cloggings. However, you can use a plunger that can help you to unclog the drain. Here’s how to do it.
- Insert the plunger into the drain.
- Now you need to put extra force and pressure to get a better result.
- Pull the plunger up and down till the clog gets cleared.
- Flush away.
Toilet Auger
Toilet Auger is a way out when you have very rough and hard clogs. However, using a toilet auger is not that easy because you need to consider some warnings. If snaking is not done in the right way then it can cause further damage. Here we are providing steps below that you can follow.
- Insert the auger in the bowl and start cranking up the handle till you reach the last extent.
- Now, rotate the auger in different directions to get the clogging clear away.
- Take out the tool completely out of the pool. Then, flush away.
Baking Soda And Vinegar
The most traditional and contemporary method. Baking soda along with vinegar is the ultimate solution for clearing the clogs. As it is a non-toxic and natural cleaner but incredible at removing hard clogs. Here is how you can do it.
- Pour one cup of baking soda into the bowl.
- After waiting 5 to 10 minutes, You need to pour 2 cups of vinegar into it.
- Close the lid of the toilet and leave for an hour approx.
- Then, Flush down the dirt.
Bleach
Bleaching is another solution that you may consider if any of the methods is not working. Bleaching is one of the oldest methods that has been used in households. Try bleaching if it doesn’t work out then you might have a serious problem. And you may consider the need for professionals.
- Take 2 to 3 cups of natural bleach
- After a couple of minutes add one cup of powdered soap.
- Leave it for at least 20 minutes and flush away the dirt.
You may also like- How to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger- 10 Quick Ways
Conclusion
Clogging the toilet is a headache, it is even worse when you have guests at your place. However, we have provided you with a full-fledged guide on Drano. Drano is abrasive to your toilet and drain fitting this is why you may consider other alternatives. Hoping you have got the answer to the question “Can You Use a Drano In a Toilet?” If you are still facing any queries, you may get back to us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in every way possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What to do if you put Drano in the toilet?
If you have put Drano in the toilet then don’t worry you can still treat your toilet well. You can use Drano Max to avoid further damage. It is a kind of preventive measure that can save your toilet.
Q2. Why can’t you use Drano in a toilet?
Drano is a highly reactive chemical that can cause damage to your PVC fittings and the S-shaped drain as well. If your drains are already corroding then it can make the situation worse.
Q3. How to use Drano max gel in the toilet?
Using Drano Max Gel is very easy. You can use it as a preventive measure and prevent your toilet from further damage. Check the steps below to get a better insight.
- Put the Drano Max in your toilet and leave it for at least 6 to 8 hours.
- Flush away all the dirt with lukewarm water.