Experts warn: A common household product can cause major damage and costly repairs

Chemical drain cleaners may clear a blocked pipe quickly, but the same reaction that breaks down hair, grease and soap can gradually damage the plumbing itself.

The products create heat through caustic ingredients. That heat helps dissolve organic buildup, but experts say it can also weaken metal pipes and some types of plastic installations. Over time, the damage may lead to microscopic cracks and leaks, turning a simple blockage into an expensive repair.

“

These formulas use caustic ingredients that create heat to dissolve clogs. Although this may seem effective, over time they can corrode your pipes, weaken metal and even damage certain types of plastic plumbing.

Allison McCarthy, owner of Zoom Drain Houston, explained that the formulas rely on a powerful chemical reaction. “These formulas use caustic ingredients that create heat to dissolve clogs. Although this may seem effective, over time they can corrode your pipes, weaken metal and even damage certain types of plastic plumbing,” she said in a statement to MarthaStewart.com.

Angie Hicks, co-founder of the home-repair website Angi, offered an even more direct warning: “To prevent damage, always avoid using drain cleaners.” For routine maintenance and minor blockages, experts recommend a mixture of baking soda, vinegar and hot, but not boiling, water. Enzyme-based products are suggested for more serious blockages because they break down organic waste without generating heat or using aggressive chemicals. If those methods fail, the recommended solution is to call a professional plumber.

“

To prevent damage, always avoid using drain cleaners.