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10 Best Drain Cleaners for PVC Pipes in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

person with gloves pouring liquid cleaner into sink drain

person with gloves pouring liquid cleaner into sink drain

Do you often struggle with clogged PVC drain pipes in your home? Does the slow-flowing water frustrate you while you are washing dishes or cleaning your face after waking up? Unfortunately, clogged drainers are both gross and inconvenient. In addition, they can wreak havoc as the standing water is often the breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Besides, clogged PVC pipes are prone to bursting and freezing. And when the pipes break down, your home insurance policy may fail to cover repair costs.

Although a clogged drain may seem like a big issue, there is a very effective solution to this problem. Some top-quality drain cleaners in the market can help make your PVC pipes clean and hurdle-free.

Some of these drain cleaners are expensive, while others are pretty affordable. In this discourse, read reviews of our top ten drain cleaners to unclog all your pipes and save you from any unexpected hassle.

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A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover
  • Affordable drain cleaner
  • Works quickly and efficiently
  • Can be used to unclog PVC pipes
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator Drain Cleaner Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator Drain Cleaner
  • Lightweight bottle
  • Value for money drain cleaner
  • Perfect for eliminating trapped hair
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Rockwell Labs IBDC032 Invade Bio Drain Gel Rockwell Labs IBDC032 Invade Bio Drain Gel
  • Keeps bacteria at bay
  • Can eliminate bad odor
  • Safe for your pipes and septic systems
  • Thrift Marketing GIDDS-TY-0400879 Drain Cleaner Thrift Marketing GIDDS-TY-0400879 Drain Cleaner
  • Crystals are easy to store
  • Odorless cleaner that works quickly
  • Can remove accumulated grease traps
  • Earthworm Drain Cleaner Earthworm Drain Cleaner
  • Comes with a fresh citrusy fragrance
  • Doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals
  • Produced by a woman-owned business
  • The 10 Best Drain Cleaners for PVC Pipes

    1. Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover – Best Overall

    Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover

    Brand: Drano
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 2.52 kg

    The Drano Max Gel drain clog is an excellent product for all sorts of clogs in your PVC pipes. Drano is a renowned brand that sells one of the best drain cleaners available in the market.

    This is our best overall drain cleaner, and that’s because it has a thick consistency, perfect for beating tough clogs. The gel formulation is also safe for your septic system, metal pipes, garbage disposals, and PVC pipes.

    What’s more, the solution takes about 15 minutes only to remove minor clogs. However, if you experience persistent blockage, you may have to use the gel twice or thrice for desirable results.

    Finally, this product has an affordable price along with its remarkable performance. This factor is enough to want to get your hands on it.

    Pros
    • Affordable drain cleaner
    • Works quickly and efficiently
    • Can be used to unclog PVC pipes
    Cons
    • One application is not enough for persistent clogs

    2. Liquid-Plumr Hair Eliminator Drain Cleaner – Best Value

    Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator Drain Cleaner

    Brand: Liquid-Plumr
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 0.6 kg

    Do you often see your sinks clogged with hair? If yes, the Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator is the best drain cleaner for the money. Although it doesn’t work on toilets or garbage disposals, it definitely can remove all your hair that has been blocking the flow of water.

    The product is budget-friendly and can tackle all sizes of hairballs within 15 minutes. In addition, it contains 70% more active ingredients than a normal cleaner, eradicating every strand of hair trapped in your bathroom or kitchen sink.

    What’s more, as per the manufacturer, it is safe for PVC pipes and various septic systems. One of the best qualities of this product is that it works its magic with just a single use.

    That said, you may have to buy more than one bottle to deal with multiple clogs. This is because the size of this bottle is comparatively smaller than other similar products.

    Pros
    • Value for money drain cleaner
    • Perfect for eliminating trapped hair
    • Lightweight bottle
    Cons
    • May require more than one bottle to deal with multiple drains

    3. Rockwell Labs Bio Drain Gel – Premium Choice

    Rockwell Labs IBDC032 Invade Bio Drain Gel

    Brand: Rockwell
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 1 kg

    Clogged PVC pipes can lead to standing water in bathroom and kitchen sinks. This is a very dangerous scenario, as this water often attracts flies and bacteria. Therefore, it is important to clear all the clogs using the most efficient drain cleaners, such as the Rockwell Labs Invade Bio Drain Gel.

    So, what does it do? For starters, the gel’s formula contains citrus oil and microbes that effectively eliminate all kinds of food debris, grease, scum, and odors. Besides, it clears the drain from accumulated sugar that bacteria feed on.

    Since most clogged sinks attract flies and other pests, this cleaner kills them easily so that you stay safe from their wrath. Unfortunately, this is an expensive cleaner due to its premium quality. However, the bottle has 32 ounces of liquid, enough to last for 32 applications.

    Pros
    • Can prevent flies from taking over your clogged sinks
    • Safe for your pipes and septic systems
    • Can eliminate bad odor
    • Keeps bacteria at bay
    Cons
    • Pricier than other cleaners

    4. Thrift Marketing Drain Cleaner

    Thrift Marketing GIDDS-TY-0400879 Drain Cleaner

    Brand: Thrift
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Solid
    Item Weight: 1 kg

    The Thrift GIDDS-TY-0400879 Drain Cleaner is one of the most durable products to keep your drains clean and clog-free. It is safe for both plastic and PVC pipes, allowing you to use this product without restrictions.

    This odorless drain cleaner can work magic within 60 seconds from the first application. To use these crystals, make sure that you run hot water through the pipes. This step helps activate and dissolve crystals to flush your drain easily.

    What’s more, if you want to use this product to remove accumulated grease, you can leave it overnight and flush it in the morning. However, it has a downside. Since this formula is strong, avoid using it in toilets and garbage disposals.

    Pros
    • Odorless cleaner that works quickly
    • Can remove accumulated grease traps
    • Crystals are easy to store
    Cons
    • Harsh chemicals can’t be used for garbage disposal
    • Expensive

    5. Earthworm Drain Cleaner

    Earthworm Drain Cleaner

    Brand: Earthworm
    Scent: Sage and citrus fragrance
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 1 kg

    The Earthworm drain cleaner is one of the best natural products to deal with trapped hair, grease, and food particles in your drain system. It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, making it safe for pets and children.

    Moreover, unlike most other drain cleaners, this product has a pleasant smell. Therefore, this product may serve you well if your pipes smell refreshing after a clean-up.

    Since the product contains natural enzymes, your septic system won’t get damaged. Another great quality is that this cleaner comes from a women’s and family-led brand that works towards making your house clean.

    The only problem is that it isn’t as fast as other products on the list. So, if you require quick treatment to unclog your drains, chemical cleaners might be more effective and useful.

    Pros
    • Doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals
    • Comes with a fresh citrusy fragrance
    • Produced by a woman-owned business
    Cons
    • Not as fast as chemical gels
    • Some may find this product expensive

    6. CLR Clear Pipes & Drains Clog Remover and Cleaner

    CLR Clear Pipes & Drains Clog Remover and Cleaner

    Brand: CLR
    Scent: Fragrance-free
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 1.5 kg

    The CLR Clear Pipes and Drains clog remover and cleaner is a perfect product that can prevent a buildup of garbage disposal, soap scum, oil, toothpaste, and kitchen waste. When used at least once a month, the product can help prevent the accumulation of grease in your kitchen drain, saving you from all the hassle of clearing the mess.

    One of the best qualities of this product is that it is safe for your environment. Besides, it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals, so you can use it around humans and pets.

    This cleaner has been recognized as part of the EPA’s Safer Choice Program. This means it can be considered a safe option to replace various chemicals. Besides, it doesn’t contain phosphates, bleach, and ammonia.

    You can use this product to keep your PVC pipes clog-free and clear. In addition, this measure can result in a consistent flow of water without any hindrances.

    Pros
    • Safe for the environment, humans, and pets
    • Can be used once every month
    • Doesn’t contain harmful chemicals
    Cons
    • May not be effective after the pipes have been clogged for long

    7. Bio-Clean Drain Cleaner

    Bio-Clean Drain Cleaner

    Brand: Bio-Clean
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Powder
    Item Weight: 1.5 kg

    Bio-Clean drain cleaner is one of the best enzymatic cleaners of all time. It contains enzymes and natural microbes to deal with organic waste accumulated in your PVC pipes. What’s more, this product is environmentally friendly, meaning that it won’t harm you or your loved ones with its formula.

    This product contains a biodegradable and efficient formula with high cleaning power. In addition, since the formula has an impact on the organic matter, you may find your pipes safe after this treatment.

    However, the powdered formula may take a few sessions before you can experience a change in your drain’s cleanliness levels. Nevertheless, you can use this product every month and notice how your drains stay clean for a long duration.

    Although this product is comparatively more expensive than other cleaners, it is worth the money you spend on it. However, if you are on a tight budget and want to own a natural drain cleaner, look for other options.

    Pros
    • Environmentally friendly
    • Can be used once every month
    • Doesn’t affect pipes
    Cons
    • Expensive product
    • May need a few sessions to measure its impact

    8. XionLab Drain Clog Remover

    XionLab Drain Clog Remover

    Brand: Xion Lab
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 1 kg

    This clog remover and drain cleaner from XionLab has the perfect formula with a balanced amount of natural and chemical ingredients. If you often experience grease and hair clogs, this product ensures a smooth flow of water through your PVC pipes, giving you access to this necessary all the time.

    It has an equal number of mild enzymes and acidic ingredients to make it much safer than chemical-based drain cleaners. The gel mixes easily with the standing water in your sink and takes about 2 hours to eliminate all kinds of obstructions.

    That said, with this product, you might have to wait a little longer to treat tough clogs completely. However, the cleaner is safe for all kinds of septic systems and doesn’t harm your PVC drain pipes.

    But, as per experts, don’t use it for your clogged kitchen and toilet sinks. The formula doesn’t work well against things such as food particles and plastic. However, you can use it effectively for your bathroom and shower sinks.

    Pros
    • A great combination of chemicals and natural ingredients
    • Works well for bathroom sinks
    • Clears small clogs within two hours
    Cons
    • Not efficient for treating kitchen sinks
    • May take longer to treat tough clogs

    9. Thrift Insta-Flo Drain Cleaner

    Thrift Insta-Flo Drain Cleaner

    Brand: Thrift
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Solid
    Item Weight: 0.4 kg

    Are you a victim of slow and severe clogs? If yes, you can try using the Thrift Insta-Flow drain cleaner to eliminate all kinds of clogs from your PVC pipes. This product works effectively without weakening your PVC pipes or mixing them with water.

    Additionally, the crystals are far more effective than liquid or gel cleaners. Insta-Flo is a non-acidic cleaner with a safe formula. As per the manufacturer, it works instantly, ensuring that all clogs open within 60 seconds after the first application.

    When using these crystals, make sure to drain all the debris by flushing with hot, boiling water. This step helps crystals dissolve and activate instantly, allowing them to perform their job pretty well.

    Contrary to common belief, you can use these crystals on chrome trim, PVC pipes, polished brass, and porcelain. However, please avoid using this product for garbage disposal or toilets, as it may not be good enough to deal with these clogs.

    Pros
    • Ideal for serious clogs
    • Doesn’t harm PVC or metal pipes
    • Can be used after flushing hot water
    Cons
    • Not ideal for treating clogs in toilets or for garbage disposal

    10. Green Gobbler Ultimate Main Drain Opener

    Green Gobbler Ultimate Main Drain Opener

    Brand: Green Gobbler
    Scent: Unscented
    State of the matter: Liquid
    Item Weight: 2 kg

    Our last recommendation for the best drain cleaner for PVC pipes is the Green Gobbler Ultimate Main Drain Opener. This product has a high-density formula that accumulates with pipes and helps liquefy all the drain blocks. In addition, the formula helps absorb paper and organic materials and addresses tough clogs while ensuring preventive maintenance.

    The product is non-inflammable and odorless. Besides, it doesn’t contain any chemicals that might be harmful to the environment. The drain cleaner contains non-hazardous ingredients that easily break down all the clogs.

    This is the reason why you can safely use this product in toilets. Although this is one of the most expensive products on the list, its performance is worth every penny, especially in the treatment for toilet sinks.

    Pros
    • Ideal for cleaning toilet sinks
    • Doesn’t contain abrasive ingredients
    • Can also be used for preventive maintenance
    Cons
    • Pricey option

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    Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Drain Cleaners for PVC Pipes

    A majority of home drainage pipes are made of PVC. This is because this special plastic is highly durable. Since PVC pipes are denser than pipes of other materials, they also help meet the purpose.

    Moreover, PVC pipes are readily available. They are comparatively affordable, and their maintenance isn’t tough. These pipes can also withstand high temperatures and have amazing tensile strength. PVC pipes are tough and rigid, and that’s what makes them a favorite of all homeowners.

    However, to maintain the quality of these pipes, you must use a competent drain cleaner. In this buying guide, let’s consider various factors that you should evaluate before selecting a cleaner.

    white plastic pvc
    Image Credit: ronstik, Shutterstock

    Formula

    Drain cleaners are available in two different types of formulas. While chemical cleaners are quick and effective, they contain many harsh substances that may harm your pipes. Ingredients like hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide can ruin your drain’s PVC pipes if used frequently and incorrectly.

    On the other hand, drain cleaners with a natural formula contain all the safe ingredients and natural bacteria to prevent harming your pipes. These cleaners are also safe to use and are environmentally friendly. However, unlike chemical cleaners, natural cleaners work slowly and may demand two to three sessions to work their magic.

    You need to decide which cleaner may meet your requirements. Once that’s decided, you can choose from liquid, gel, crystal, powder, or foam cleaners.

    Clog Size and Duration

    Suppose you have a clog in your pipes that is bigger than you might have imagined. It has ruined your entire drainage system and needs to be removed as soon as possible. In that case, go for a drain cleaner that can unclog your pipes quickly. And for that, we recommend using a chemical-based cleaner instead of a natural one.

    Age of the Pipes

    Do you live in an old house or a new one? If you have an old house, chances are that its PVC pipes are weak and might need a replacement. While PVC is a strong material with a long life, it tends to weaken with time, like any other material.

    So, it is imperative to use natural drain cleaners only for old pipes. This is because no old material can withstand the harshness of ingredients in a chemical drain cleaner.

    Use of the Cleaner

    Before you buy a cleaner, ask yourself the purpose behind getting the product. While most cleaners fulfill a similar purpose, they might not be ideal for certain uses.

    For instance, some options shared above aren’t ideal for toilets and garbage disposals. Moreover, a few products may not be effective against grease. Some high-quality cleaners are only made to remove trapped hair, while others prevent the accumulation of dirt particles.

    There are many products that work for all purposes. For example, you can use them to clean a drain entirely. Although these expensive cleaners are worth the money you spend on them.

    person pouring drain cleaner clog remover down the drain
    Image Credit: Dmitry Galaganov, Shutterstock

    Size

    Do you have a big or small drain system? If it is big with multiple PVC pipes, you should spend money on a bigger bottle to save and use it for as many sessions as you want.

    On the other hand, if you have a small drainage system that doesn’t require frequent unclogging, you can get a small bottle. This bottle size might be more affordable than its bigger version. Besides, you won’t waste anything, so that’s a great plus.

    Safety

    If you have kids and pets in your house, it is best to use drain cleaners that are safe for them. Certain chemicals are not lethal and can be used frequently. However, there are cleaners that can cause severe allergies, leading to many medical complications.

    Natural cleaners are best to be used around pets and kids. However, they may take days to work. Before investing in a drain cleaner, read labels and use instructions carefully. This way, you can know which product might be harmful or safe for the people living with you.

    Price

    There are many drain cleaners available, each with a price tag. However, if you have a tight budget, you can get your hands on a small bottle of cleaner and evaluate its performance. Moreover, certain chemical-based cleaners are cheaper than natural ones.

    However, if you are worried about frequent clogging episodes and can’t wait to get rid of all the dirt, grease, and hair in your PVC pipes, prioritize quality over price any day.

    Expert Recommendations

    Finally, if you buy a drain cleaner for the first time, always look for expert recommendations or customer feedback. This information always proves helpful when looking for products that have worked wonders for people and their houses.

    You can look for these reviews on the internet and on various forums. You can even raise questions regarding your preferred product and take opinions from fellow users.

    Drain
    Image Credit: Semevent, Pixabay

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    Conclusion

    Your PVC pipes are safe if you use the best drain cleaners to eliminate all the clogs. These products keep your pipes clean and prevent any damage to your septic system.

    We have shared our top options and think all these products are worth trying. However, our first option is the Drano Max Gel drain remover for its price, excellent performance, and easy availability.

    Earthworm drain cleaner takes the second spot because of its natural formula and great scent. Read the above reviews in detail to pick your product and start unclogging.


    Featured Image Credit: onebit, Shutterstock

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