There are many reasons why you would want to stay away from the common, over the counter drain chemicals. While they might seem like a simple way to clear out a clog, they can do a lot of damage.

If you have a septic system, you can kill the bacteria that is helping to break down the material in your tank. They can also damage the pipes in your home, causing corrosion, and break apart seals. On top of all the damage they can do to you personally, they are also harmful to the environment.

So what can you do? In many cases, it depends on what type of clog it is. If the clog is in your kitchen, it is possible that it consists largely of grease and fat. If that is the case, there is a very simple, low tech solution. Boil some water, let it cool down for a few minutes, and then pour it down the sink. The hot water will melt the clog and your pipe should clear up. If this doesn’t work, you might need to either plunge or snake the drain. You can create a homemade snake from an old wire hanger. Just be careful not to damage your pipes when trying to clear the clog out.