When your drains slow down, are you able to clean them effectively and get them moving again? There may be the occasional situation in which you have to call a drain cleaning service and have them remove a clog that is further down the line. But for the most part, you really should be able to clear drain clogs yourself. Here are some tips to make your drain cleaning efforts more effective.

1. Start by removing the drain trap.

Many drain clogs are caused by hair. It only takes a couple of long hairs to get stuck in the trap and then grab onto other debris, causing a clog. The easiest way to remove this common type of clog is just to remove the drain strainer and clean the drain trap. To do this, you generally have to unscrew two screws — one located on each side of the drain trap. Then, lift the strainer out of place and take a look at the trap. If there's hair and gunk caught around it, use tweezers or pliers to pull this debris out. Pour some hot water down the drain, screw everything back into place, and you're good to go.

2. Remember, you can plunge a drain.

If there's nothing caught in the drain trap, then the clog may be caused by grease, soap scum, or other sticky material that is further down the line. You can often free this gunk with just a plunger. That's right — plungers are not just for toilets! The type of plunger you are looking for is one with a bowl-shaped head. You want to fill the sink or tub with water, and then place the head of the plunger beneath the water level and fully around the drain opening. Plunge straight up and down, and with any luck, the drain should soon start draining.

3. When using various liquids, give them time.

If the plunger does not work, you can use a liquid product, such as an enzymatic drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Whichever liquid cleaner you choose, the secret to success is to wait. Give the product at least an hour to work. So many people pour it in, wait a couple of minutes, and then rinse the product away before it has had a chance to work.

Hopefully, you now have a better idea of how to effectively clean your drains. If you still can't get them to drain, contact a plumber or drain cleaning service near you.