9 Best Drain Cleaners of 2024 Tested by Experts

Clogged drains are a common household nuisance, but choosing the right drain cleaner can make all the difference. From clearing tough grease clogs to dissolving hair and soap scum, these expert-tested drain cleaners offer effective solutions for all types of blockages. Here’s our list of the 9 best drain cleaners of 2024 that deliver fast and reliable results.

1. Drano Max Gel Clog Remover

Best Overall Drain Cleaner

• Why We Recommend It: Drano Max Gel is a powerhouse against tough clogs. Its thick formula cuts through standing water to dissolve grease, hair, and soap scum quickly.
• Suitable For: Kitchen and bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers.
• Key Features:
  • Works within 15 minutes.
  • Safe for most pipes, including PVC and metal.

2. Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver

Best Eco-Friendly Option

• Why We Recommend It: This biodegradable solution effectively dissolves hair, grease, and soap without harming the environment.
• Suitable For: Bathroom drains and septic systems.
• Key Features:
  • Non-toxic and odorless.
  • Safe for pipes and the planet.

3. Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Full Clog Destroyer

Best for Severe Clogs

• Why We Recommend It: A strong formula designed for stubborn clogs, this cleaner tackles grease and food debris in minutes.
• Suitable For: Kitchen sinks and garbage disposals.
• Key Features:
  • Works in as little as 7 minutes.
  • Contains pipe-safe ingredients.

4. Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria

Best for Long-Term Maintenance

• Why We Recommend It: A natural solution that uses bacteria and enzymes to break down organic waste, preventing future clogs.
• Suitable For: All drains and septic systems.
• Key Features:
  • Prevents buildup over time.
  • Safe for the environment and all pipes.

5. Zep Drain Defense Pipe Build-Up Remover

Best for Preventive Care

• Why We Recommend It: This enzymatic cleaner is designed for regular use to keep pipes clear of buildup.
• Suitable For: Showers, sinks, and tubs.
• Key Features:
  • Prevents recurring clogs.
  • Safe for pipes and septic systems.

6. RID-X Septic Treatment

Best for Septic Systems

• Why We Recommend It: Specifically formulated for septic tanks, RID-X helps break down waste and prevents clogging in connected drains.
• Suitable For: Septic systems and drains.
• Key Features:
  • Monthly treatment for long-term maintenance.
  • Contains 100% natural bacteria and enzymes.

7. Professor Amos’ SuperFast Drain Cleaner

Best for Quick Results

• Why We Recommend It: A fast-acting formula that dissolves hair, grease, and soap scum with ease.
• Suitable For: Bathroom and kitchen drains.
• Key Features:
  • Works in under 5 minutes.
  • Safe for pipes and septic systems.

8. Thrift Drain Cleaner

Best for Professional Use

• Why We Recommend It: This industrial-strength cleaner is highly effective on clogs caused by hair and grease.
• Suitable For: Bathroom drains and commercial settings.
• Key Features:
  • Works in 60 seconds.
  • Requires careful handling due to its potency.

9. Earthworm Family-Safe Drain Cleaner

Best for Families

• Why We Recommend It: A non-toxic, family-safe option that effectively cleans drains using natural enzymes.
• Suitable For: Homes with children and pets.
• Key Features:
  • Pleasant citrus scent.
  • Eco-friendly and gentle on pipes.

How to Choose the Right Drain Cleaner

1. Identify the Type of Clog:
   • Hair and soap scum: Opt for enzyme-based cleaners.
   • Grease and food debris: Choose a heavy-duty chemical cleaner.
2. Consider Pipe Material:
   • Ensure the cleaner is compatible with your pipes (e.g., PVC, metal, or older plumbing systems).
3. Frequency of Use:
   • Use enzymatic cleaners for regular maintenance and chemical cleaners for occasional severe clogs.
4. Environmental Impact:
   • For eco-conscious households, select biodegradable and non-toxic options.

Safety Tips for Using Drain Cleaners

• Always wear gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Avoid mixing different drain cleaners to prevent hazardous reactions.
• Store chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

Conclusion

Whether you’re tackling a stubborn clog or maintaining your drains, these expert-tested best drain cleaners of 2024 cater to various needs. From eco-friendly solutions to powerful industrial-grade options, there’s a cleaner for every situation.

Take action today and keep your drains flowing freely!