This $10 unexpected Alka-Seltzer hack is a simple and effective way to clear slow moving drains

A blue and white kitchen with blue cabinets, a white kitchen island, and a black and white tiled backsplash behind a black stove. On the kitchen island is a loaf of bread, a tray with breakfast goods, and an open recipe book. To the right is a white fluted sink with gold faucets next to a vase of flowers, below a bright and sunny window.

Dealing with a slow-moving drain can be tricky and troublesome, but it turns out that the key to getting things flowing again could be hidden away in your bathroom cabinet already: Alka-Seltzer.

It's a gentle, relatively affordable solution to remove soap scum and small clogs, but, as plumbing experts warn, there are some drawbacks to consider, and it's certainly not suitable in every situation.

Here, they share how to try this DIY drain cleaning solution professionals swear by in the right circumstances, and explain exactly why it works.

Why does Alka-Seltzer work to unclog slow-moving drains?

To find out why Alka-Seltzer could be the answer to any reasons why your sink won't drain, I spoke to Patrick Fee, co-founder of Mr. Drain in Sacramento.

He explains, 'Alka-Seltzer is basically just sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and citric acid. When combined with water, the fizzing reaction can help break up small bits of grease, soap scum, or grime clinging to your pipes,' all of which are surprising things that are clogging your drains.

Importantly though, while using Alka-Seltzer is a popular DIY trick that may help loosen minor build-up in your drain, it 'usually won't provide a long-term solution to slow-moving drains,' continues Patrick.

Justin Cornforth, owner of Ace Home Co., agrees, adding, 'If you're imagining a mini explosion dislodging a hairball, you're giving way too much credit to an antacid tablet.

'It might help with soap scum, biofilm, or a buildup of toothpaste and mouthwash in a bathroom sink. But on a kitchen drain full of grease, or a clog caused by hair and debris? Forget it.'

As Patrick says, though, 'At the very least, it doesn't hurt to try.' If you would like to give it a go in your own home, here's how.

How to use Alka-Seltzer to clear slow moving drains

The process is quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive. (Image credit: Future / JONATHAN GOOCH)

To use this process to unclog a bathtub drain or anywhere else, it couldn't be simpler. Patrick shares his method:

1. Drop two to three Alka-Seltzer Effervescent Tablets, available at Amazon, into the drain.
2. Pour a cup of water down after them.
3. Let the mixture sit and fizz for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Rinse the drain with hot water.

Drawbacks of this method

This method is good for maintenance, but not treatment of serious blocks. (Image credit: Future / PAUL RAESIDE LTD)

As Justin warns, 'People waste days on these hacks before calling in a pro, by which point the clog’s worse and so is the bill. If hair, grease, or a foreign object is lodged deeper in the P-trap or beyond, fizzy bubbles won't help.

'Moreover, a temporarily faster drain might make you think the issue’s gone, but it may just be building further down.'

So, instead, he recommends using enzyme-drain cleaners, such as the bestselling Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain & Grease Trap Cleaner available at Walmart, once a month.

'It's preventative and won't help in the case of clog, but at least they do digest organic buildup instead of just foaming at it,' he explains.

If you do try this Alka-Seltzer trick, adds Patrick, and are still struggling with slow drains, it's time to call a professional plumber to swerve any plumbing disasters.

'Remember, this trick won’t help with hair clogs or solid blockages, especially those further down your sewer line,' he advises. 'Similarly, if your drains smell bad, especially with a sewage-like smell, your problem is likely further down the line, and cannot be solved with DIY solutions.'

What to shop

Natural formula

Bioda Multi-Purpose Probiotic Enzyme Cleaner and Deodorizer

This multi-purpose enzyme cleaner provides powerful cleaning performance in a wide variety of applications, and maintains clean drain lines to prevent clogs and potential buildup.

Pack of 116

Alka-Seltzer Effervescent Tablets

If you prefer to buy in bulk, pop this pack of Alka-Seltzer tablets in your bathroom cabinet for clearing drains and easing pains.

Spins 360°

FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Pro Snake

This drain snake uses FlexiSnake's patented micro-hook technology to instantly fix hair-clogged drains. After, clean-up is easy as the refill wands easily detach from the handle.

Number one bestseller

MR.SIGA Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush Combo

This two-in-one product contains a toilet brush, toilet plunger, and a two-compartment holder with a space-saving design for convenient storage.

Works quickly

Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover

This drain-cleaning gel gets to work in just seven minutes, pours through standing water straight to the clog, can be left in drains overnight, and is safe for use in garbage disposals, and sinks.

Plant-derived cleaning power

MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Probiotic Drain Maintenance Liquid

This probiotic, USDA Certified Biobased cleaner contains micro-helpers that actively work to prevent buildups, and freshen up any drain with the refreshing, mild citrus scent of Lemon Verbena essential oils.

Meet our experts

Did you know you shouldn't use vinegar and baking soda to unclog a drain? Experts warn it can 'inadvertently reduce the lifespan of your plumbing infrastructure.'