At the other end of the spectrum lies the chemical drain unblocker, the heavy artillery of drain cleaning. These products are broadly divided into two categories: acidic and alkaline (basic). Acidic cleaners often contain sulfuric or hydrochloric acid. They work by generating heat and chemically dissolving organic matter, hair, and even some greases. Alkaline cleaners, far more common in household brands like Drano or Liquid-Plumr, use sodium hydroxide (lye) or potassium hydroxide. These substances create a highly caustic solution that reacts violently with the fats in soap scum and hair, converting them into water-soluble soaps (a process called saponification) and releasing hydrogen gas and intense heat. This heat helps melt greases and softens the clog.
Before choosing an unblocker, it helps to know what you’re fighting. Most bathtub blockages are caused by: bath drain unblocker