When researching the best options on the market, we judged products based on effectiveness, compatibility with various systems, and value. Our best overall pick is the Drano Max Gel Clog Remover, an affordable but powerful solution that works on different pipe and septic systems. Here are the best drain openers. Drano stands out among drain cleaners for the same reasons that it takes our best overall spot. This popular drain cleaner works effectively on different drains and disposals—whether in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, or garage. This highly concentrated formula works in about seven minutes and can remove even the toughest grime buildup from your drains. The process is simple: pour one-fifth of the bottle into your drain and leave it alone for 15 minutes or more (you can even leave it overnight). Then flush the drain with hot water from the sink. You can repeat this process until the water flows through the drain without any signs of clogs from hair, soap scum, or standing water. In addition to tackling clogs, this formula protects pipes against corrosion, giving them a longer lifespan. More challenging buildups could require repeat applications and longer wait times (30 minutes or longer). But if you want an effective solution for clogged drains throughout your home, this reasonably priced product is hard to beat. Price at time of publish: $10 The Pequa Drain Opener is a highly-rated product for both commercial and residential use, and it gets top marks from users who say it’s their go-to drain opener. This product comes in a 64-ounce bottle, and it can dissolve all organic matter, including hair and grease. This drain opener is fast-acting, but it’s environmentally safe and won’t harm your pipes. Several reviewers say they’ve successfully used this drain opener on stubborn shower or tub clogs, but many note that it works well on kitchen drains, too. Price at time of publish: $27 This product comes in one-quart bottles, and it has a citrus smell you won’t mind in the kitchen. The drain opener effectively cuts through scum and other organic matter, sticking to the walls of the drain to clear tough clogs. What’s better, this product can also eliminate drain flies, which can be tough to get rid of in the kitchen or bathroom. According to reviewers, this product works well, clearing up pipes and killing drain flies, all while leaving a pleasant orange scent behind. Price at time of publish: $18 This powder formula uses a combination of natural bacteria and enzymes to cut through organic waste in your pipes. It is effective on grease, hair, soap scum, food particles, and more. Because it doesn’t affect inorganic materials, it’s safe for use on all plumbing systems, including septic tanks. Reviewers say that if you use the product as directed over the course of several days, it will effectively clear up any clogs or backups, allowing your pipes to drain better than ever. Price at time of publish: $50 This product comes in 32-ounce bottles and contains a special blend of bacteria that digest and liquefy food particles, grease, fats, and oils. The thick formula will stick to the blades of your garbage disposal, cleaning and deodorizing the appliance. This product is septic system-friendly, and it has an orange scent that will leave your sink smelling nice. Reviewers say it is easy to use and effectively reduces odors in garbage disposals. Price at time of publish: $11 This drain opener comes in a 68-ounce bottle, and its formula is designed to dissolve hair and melt grease. It’s safe to use on all types of pipes, as well as with septic systems, and it is an odorless, fume-less product. If you don’t believe how good this drain opener is, just read reviews from the hundreds of happy users, who say it works quickly to get rid of tough clogs in the bathroom and kitchen. Many say it has even worked on clogs that plumbers couldn’t solve! Price at time of publish: $24 This highly-rated product comes in one-gallon jugs, and it uses a powerful formula to dissolve hair, grease, and other gunk that accumulates in drains. It’s safe for use on all types of pipes and with septic systems, and many people use it to open both main sewer and lateral lines. Numerous reviewers say this product was recommended to them by a plumber, and several note that it is incredibly effective on grease clogs. Price at time of publish: $14 Each container has one pound of product, and the lye beads will sink to the bottom of standing water, reaching the cause of blockage and breaking up tough clogs. The formula is odorless and non-acidic, making it safe to use with plastic pipes, grease traps, and septic systems. Perhaps the most compelling reason to buy this product is the glowing reviews from users who say it cut through tough drain backups where other products failed. Price at time of publish: $12
Time of Exposure
While some formulas can work in as little as 20 minutes, others do best when left overnight to unclog your drain. Pay close attention to the amount of cleaner to use and how long to leave it sitting to avoid wasting money or time.
System Compatibility
If you have plastic pipes, a septic tank, or a garbage disposal, take extra care when picking a drain cleaner. Not all cleaners are safe for all pipe types or for septic tanks, but ones that are will list it on the container.
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Additional reporting and research was done by Lauren Murphy, an experienced writer and editor who specializes in DIYs, home upgrades, and other home-related topics.
