If there is an odd smell coming from your sink and the water is draining slowly then you are likely dealing with a blocked drain, but it is a very easy fix if you use the right products. 

It is no surprise sink drains become clogged up as food and oil tend to go down kitchen sinks daily while hair and soap residue can block bathroom sinks. 

Ollie, an interior specialist from Bathroom Takeaway, has shared a simple way to clear your sink without having to call a professional using a natural item that costs less than £3. 

He said: “Having trouble unblocking your bathroom sink? Try using soda crystals, also known as washing soda. 

“It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can effectively clear even the toughest sink blockages.” 

Sink clogs can be difficult to remove, as you need something that can remove fat, oil, and grease, which are the most common culprits of blocked pipes. 

Vinegar and baking soda are popular natural cleaners because they can dissolve many stains, but they are not powerful enough to dissolve these blockages. 

Soda crystals are highly alkaline, which makes them highly effective in dissolving acidic grease and organic matter like food scraps or soap, which will dislodge in minutes. 

What is amazing about soda crystals is that not only is it a natural way to clear a drain but it is cheap as well. A box only costs £2.50 at B&Q but can also be bought for £2 from Asda.

How to clear drains using soda crystals

To begin, fill your kettle with boiling water and carefully pour it down the sink. 

This will help melt any congealed grease or fat and break down any soap, food particles, or hair sticking to the pipes.

Wait a few minutes for the boiled water to drain away, then pour a cup of soda crystals down the plughole. 

Then boil the kettle once again, wait a few minutes, and pour the water down the sink. This will dissolve the soda crystals, making them more effective. 

Once the soda crystals have broken down the blockage, pour a little more boiling water down the sink to fully clear the blockage.  The water in your sink should now drain away quickly.