2torial #0858: Learn2 Cut Down on Toxic Household Cleaners (continued) Replace drain cleaners   Sinks and tubs come with a strainer and plug to keep unwanted items out of the drain. Pouring boiling water down the drain weekly is a good preventative measure, but sometimes, despite the care you take, a blockage does occur. Before you resort to a commercial product, give this remedy a try. (Never use a plunger with a commercial drain cleaner.) A plunger is a plumbing tool widely available in most general department and hardware stores. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but are used in the same way. And they aren't called "a plumber's friend" for nothing! In many cases it's all you need to loosen up a clog. They don't come with directions but they're simple to use. Place the bowl of the plunger directly over the drain. Make sure it's flat on the sink's surface--this will form a good seal. Hold the stick (the handle) with both hands. Push up and down quickly and firmly four or five times. Maintain the bowl's surface contact with the sink. The vacuum created within the bowl pulls up on the air in the drain, dislodging the clog. Pour boiling water down the drain to flush the clog, and repeat the whole procedure if necessary. Sometimes the clog is more stubborn than you are--stronger measures are required. Pour a cup (about 250 g) of baking soda and a half cup (about 125 g) of table salt, followed by a cup (about 250 ml) of white vinegar, down the drain. The vinegar causes the baking soda to bubble away, moving the grains of salt which are acting as an abrasive on the clog. After 20 minutes, pour in a kettle of boiling water to wash away the clog. If the drain is freed up, but still a bit slow, use the plunger to finish the job. Step 3