Quickly cover the drain with a wet cloth or the drain plug. You want to keep the fizzing reaction concentrated inside the pipe rather than letting it bubble up into the sink. Let this sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes (or up to an hour for stubborn smells).
30 to 60 minutes [2]. Flush with Heat: Boil a kettle of water and pour it slowly down the drain to flush away any loosened debris [2, 3]. Why It Works (and Why It Doesn't) The "Fizzy" Reaction: The reaction creates pressure and movement that can help dislodge hair, soap scum, and light organic matter [3]. Deodorizing: Bicarbonate of soda is excellent at neutralizing acidic odors coming from the pipes [3]. Limitations: This method does not dissolve grease. In fact, if not flushed thoroughly with hot water, the powder can sometimes settle and harden, potentially worsening a clog [1, 5]. Expert Recommendations Plumbers often suggest using this method only as a bicarbonate of soda drains
Pour about half a cup of bicarbonate of soda directly down the drain. If the drain is completely backed up with standing water, try to bail some of it out first so the powder can reach the clog. Quickly cover the drain with a wet cloth or the drain plug
The best use of bicarbonate of soda is . Once a week, before the smell or slowness starts: 30 to 60 minutes [2]