Enzyme vs Chemical Drain Cleaner: Choosing a Type

Two different approaches

Enzyme or bacterial drain products contain biological ingredients that are designed to break down organic residue such as food particles or soap scum. They are generally positioned as maintenance products and are used on a schedule given on the label.

Chemical drain cleaners rely on reactive ingredients. Alkaline products often use lye, which is sodium hydroxide, while acidic ones use strong acids. They are formulated for a quick response on a blockage and come with a long list of precautions.

This page describes the categories in general terms. Each product is different, and the manufacturer's directions override anything written here.

Handling and safety

Read the entire label before opening any drain product. Typical instructions for chemical types include wearing gloves and eye protection, ventilating the room, keeping the product away from children and pets, and never mixing it with another cleaner. Mixing different drain or cleaning products can release harmful gases, so labels warn against it strongly.

Enzyme and bacterial products usually have milder warnings, but they still have directions about water temperature, other cleaners and storage. If a previous chemical product is still in the pipe, do not add another product on top, and check the label for guidance on waiting.

• Keep the original container so the label and emergency contact are on hand.
• Never use a plunger or snake in a drain that contains standing chemical liquid.
• If any product contacts skin or eyes, follow the label's first aid steps and contact poison control or a medical professional.

Fitting the product to the problem

A drain that runs slowly can have many causes, including hair, grease, a vent issue or something further down the line. A product is only suited to certain causes, so reading what the label says it is for matters. Mechanical tools such as a drain strainer, a hand auger or a plunger are also common first steps, and they avoid the question of chemicals entirely.

Prevention is often the least stressful route. A hair catcher in the shower and a habit of keeping grease out of the kitchen sink reduce how often you need any product.

When to call a plumber

Call a plumber if more than one fixture is backing up, if water gurgles in other drains, if there is a sewage smell, or if you have already tried a product without improvement. Repeating chemical products on a stubborn clog can leave caustic liquid sitting in the pipe, which is a hazard for whoever opens the line next.

Homes with septic systems, older pipes or shared plumbing in an apartment building should check with a plumber or landlord before using any drain product.

Which to choose

• You want a routine upkeep product for kitchen or bathroom drains Enzyme or bacterial type, used per the label
• The drain is fully blocked and you have read the full label A chemical product, or skip to a mechanical tool or plumber
• Children or pets are in the home Follow label storage rules strictly, and consider mechanical tools first
• You have a septic tank or older pipes Ask a plumber before choosing either type
• Several drains are slow at once Call a plumber rather than adding products