What are the differences between biodegradable and conventional drain cleaners?

• <div><p>Conventional drain cleaners, like you might buy at the grocery store, use bleach (sodium hydroxide) as the main ingredient. On the contrary, biodegradable drain cleaners use gentler ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water to clear out drains. </p><p>Bleach is extremely corrosive and releases harmful gasses—hence the need for wearing safety protections like rubber gloves, eye goggles, face masks, and long sleeves and properly ventilating the room while using bleach. Biodegradable cleaners, however, don’t use bleach. Therefore they are safer to use, especially if you have a house full of children.</p></div>

What can you pour down a toilet to unclog it?

• <div><p>Start by pouring hot—but not boiling—water down the drain. The heat of the water may be enough to break down the clog. You can also try ½ cup of dish soap or 1 cup each of white vinegar and baking soda. If you choose a chemical unclogging product, ensure it’s appropriate for toilets to avoid damage.</p></div>

Get matched with top drain cleaners in Lawrenceville, IL

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

TRUSTED BY LAWRENCEVILLE, IL HOMEOWNERS

4.7
Average homeowner rating
76
Verified drain cleaning services reviews

Verified Reviews for Drain Cleaning pros in Lawrenceville, IL

*The Angi rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Lawrenceville, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Lawrenceville, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

Last update on November 10, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Jim knew exactly what needed to be done as I had this occur the year previous. He was very thorough very professional and gave me tips on how to help keep my drains, cleaned monthly to help prevent further blockages.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2024
At the start things went well with Xecutive Pools. The estimators showed up on time, spent a great deal of time on site and provided an on the spot estimate of the work. After multiple estimates, we were happy with the amount of time and detail these guys put into their estimate. We accepted...
Xecutive Pools
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
I called this company to address a blocked drain in my basement. I had water standing and the drain wouldn't drain. Trevor Martin was the plumber who arrived and immediately started telling me that they don't guarantee their work. He started by telling me that their charge is $350. Even though I...
BW/Cook Service Experts
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2019
Eva was wonderful. However she did not receive my requested cleaning areas and arrived without a ladder so she was unable to clean light fixtures.
Emilia's Cleaning Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2019
By any objective standard my home was not cleaned well. Toilets were left filthy, floors and stairs covered in dirt and dust. Kitchen left with grime. Sinks still had rust around rim of drain and sinks dirty in general. Toilet seats dirty overall- under seats, under rim, all inside bowl- by the...
Clean Tech Maid Service, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2017
Ken came for the initial consultation. He was very helpful. Explained everything and answered all our questions. And asked many times if we had any questions. Rob was the foreman for the work crew. He had us come look at what was being done each step of the way. They put in steel beams with...
Family Waterproofing Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2014
I contacted the company after normal business hours and explained that when I flushed the toilet it backed up into my tub. The gentleman I spoke with asked if I would be comfortable waiting until morning to avoid additional after-hour expenses. I was also, advised that it would be alright to...
R J Kuhn Plumbing Heating & Cooling, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2014
I had water in my basement twice in 2 years, ACCA came and put a drain along the basement wall leading to my sump pit area. They also re routed 3 of my outside guttering downspouts to keep the water from pooling in my backyard. The guys were awesome. Worked for 2 days. I highly recommend them
ACCA Basement Systems
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2013
Excellent! Arun spent time talking with my wife on what she wanted. He listened to her, offered suggestions and did the plan just as she wanted. Some landscapers don't seem to work well with women, but no problem here! We also asked them to find drain tiles that was connected to our roof...
Rent A Gardener Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2013
Everything started alright...lots of workers. When it came time for finishing touches....zero conversation after final payment was made. Despite phone calls and emails for the last 30 days, I have had no contact with vendor. Now i'm left with a refinished pool that is missing all 3 drain...
DANNA POOLS INC
Request a quote

Find Drain cleaners in Lawrenceville

Ron's Plumbing

3.50(

)

•Approved Pro

Ron's Plumbing

3.50(

)

•Approved Pro

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

10 years of experience

Welcome to Ron's Plumbing! We always provide high quality work, that produces an exceptional product. We pride ourselves on the relationships we build with all of our clients, and we cannot wait to hear from you. Call today!

"null"

Deedee S on June 2020

"null"

Deedee S on June 2020

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Customers say: Super punctual

31510 local quotes requested

9 years of experience

NEW! Appliance Consultation – Just $35 Get expert advice before you spend on repairs or replacements. A Neli technician will evaluate your issue and help you decide if your appliance can be fixed—or if it’s time for a new one. Virtual Appliance Diagnosis and Repair - Just $45 Service Description: Diagnose or repair your appliance virtually—no need for anyone to enter your home. Neli’s certified technicians guide you step-by-step via secure video chat. How It Works: Book online at nelihome.com or call 833-876-0900 Connect with a tech through our video platform Diagnose or fix the issue in real time Get expert advice and confidence in your next steps What’s Included: Real-time video guidance from a certified technician Diagnosis of the issue OR full repair (when possible) Step-by-step guidance using your smartphone or tablet Safe, contact-free service - no one in your home Flexible scheduling—appointments available daily Perfect For: Appliance fixes HVAC troubleshooting DIY-savvy homeowners Saving time and money on service calls

"Super helpful"

Michele H on November 2025

"Super helpful"

Michele H on November 2025

Spinlisting LLC

No reviews yet

Spinlisting LLC

No reviews yet

7 years of experience

We are a Home Service Company if you need Handyman service, Home Improvement, Painting, painter, Drywall, Flooring, plumbing, Electrical, Garage Repair. Roofing, House Cleaning. Tree Removal, Landscaping, AC Repair, Heating Service, we can help you with all Your Home Improvement needs and more Check out our website for all your Home Service Needs

Custom Construction is a Licensed and Insured FULL SERVICE DESIGN and BUILD Company and General Contractor with a wide range of experience. Interior to Exterior, from A to Z one call does it all. Let our dedicated team of experts make your dreams come true. We handle all types of remodeling. We accept all major credit cards and offer financing for quailifed clients. Emergency 24/7 services available

Kingery's construction

1.50(

)

Kingery's construction

1.50(

)

Free onsite estimate

Kilmans Drain Cleaning

No reviews yet

Kilmans Drain Cleaning

No reviews yet

15 years of experience

We offer drain cleaning sevices for Southern Illinois. If you cant flush,give us a call!

Solutions Contracting

No reviews yet

Solutions Contracting

No reviews yet

19 years of experience

Solutions Contracting is dedicated to provide home and buisness owners with high quality construction, remodeling, and small project solutions, that are customized to our customers needs and wants. Solutions Contracting is certified to provide roofing and lead paint renovation services in Illinois. Although we are located in Barry Illinois we serve the entire west central Illinois area.

McDonagh & Sons Plumbing & Sewer Inc

4.86(

)

McDonagh & Sons Plumbing & Sewer Inc

4.86(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Mcdonagh & sons plumbing & sewer takes great pride with 15 years of experience! We are honest, reliable, genuine and trustworthy! We are constantly referred by our customers because of our great service and dedication to meet their needs! We offer free estimates! "anything plumbing, anything sewer, any time". Ertain areas are to subject a service fee *prices may vary. Discounts can not be combined, unless noted. Award winning. Additional dba - mcdonagh & sons plumbing and sewer.

First Response Drain Service

5.00(

)

First Response Drain Service

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

First Response Drain Service is a locally owned and operated company that was developed to provide businesses and homeowners with professional service that keeps their drainage systems flowing efficiently. We have 5 employees on staff full time and 3-4 part-time employees. All are well groomed and respectful. On occasion subcontractors are used for large scale projects. This allows for proper safety and insurance requirements as we work in conjunction with other top notch contractors. First response Drain Service is owned and operated by a Union trained plumber who spent numerous years learning the trade. This valuable training is applied to our day to day operations and is what sets us apart from other sewer service contractors. We offer free estimates, charge NO travel time and bill by the hour and affordable rates. Anyone who mentions our Angie's List ad will receive a free video sewer inspection recorded to DVD. First Response Drain Service is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise smelly situation. Our technicians enjoy what they do and it reflects in the work that we do. Our staff is friendly and easy to talk to. We explain each situation in a way that makes sense. Give us a call and you will experience a whole new concept in the sewer service industry.

Showing 1-10 of 14

Drain Cleaning questions, answered by experts

The drain pump will naturally make a standard operational and draining sound several times throughout your dishwasher cycle. If you hear abnormally loud sounds like scraping, grinding, or clicking, you may have food debris or a piece of glass stuck in your drain filter. Avoid dishwasher repair by always scraping food off your dishes and loading the racks correctly.

Conventional drain cleaners, like you might buy at the grocery store, use bleach (sodium hydroxide) as the main ingredient. On the contrary, biodegradable drain cleaners use gentler ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water to clear out drains.

Bleach is extremely corrosive and releases harmful gasses—hence the need for wearing safety protections like rubber gloves, eye goggles, face masks, and long sleeves and properly ventilating the room while using bleach. Biodegradable cleaners, however, don’t use bleach. Therefore they are safer to use, especially if you have a house full of children.

Start by pouring hot—but not boiling—water down the drain. The heat of the water may be enough to break down the clog. You can also try ½ cup of dish soap or 1 cup each of white vinegar and baking soda. If you choose a chemical unclogging product, ensure it’s appropriate for toilets to avoid damage.

There are several ways to tell if your gutter downspout drain is backed up. The most obvious sign is when you see water flowing over your gutter edges. This can occur during everything from light rain to a rainstorm. Additional signs can include peeling paint around your downspout, visible dirt around your downspout, and moisture on the side of the house. If you're having ongoing problems with clogs caused by a poorly designed or worn-out gutter system, consider getting a quote for gutter replacement cost.

While there is no specific “best” method to clear hair out of a drain, several options work well. Using a combination of baking soda and vinegar to dissolve the hair clog is a great and easy way to help clear the drain. Drain snakes are also effective for more severe clog buildups.

The Lawrenceville, IL homeowners’ guide to drain cleaning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Candace Nelson
•
Mar 4, 2025Mar 4, 2025
How Much Will It Cost to Clean My Drain? [2025 Data]
When your shower or sink starts draining slowly or not at all, it’s time to act. Get tips for how to unclog a drain, and learn about drain cleaning service pricing.
Angi
•
Nov 4, 2025Nov 4, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Drain Pipes in a House? [2025 Data]
Discover the cost to replace drain pipes in a house, including average prices, key factors, and tips to save on your plumbing project.
Mariel Loveland
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
What Is the Standard Tub Drain Size and How Do I Measure for My Drain?
Tub drain sizes are standardized, but they can vary in certain circumstances. This guide will discuss the most common sizes and how to measure your tub.
Samantha Hawrylack
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
What Is Hydro Jetting and When Do You Need It?
Hydro jetting can help clear deep plumbing clogs and debris buildup. Use this guide to learn all about hydro jetting and whether it’s the appropriate fix for your problem.
Heather Ayer
•
Sep 18, 2024Sep 18, 2024
5 Easy Ways to Remove Hair From Your Drain
If you’ve got a slow-draining bathtub, it could be due to hair buildup. This complete guide will show you how to remove hair from the drain.
Heather Ayer
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
How to Snake a Basement Floor Drain in 9 Steps
Knowing how to snake a basement floor drain is an important DIY skill for homeowners. Our guide gives a step-by-step process to clean your basement drain.