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Yes, chemical drain cleaners contain sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, both of which are not only dangerous to your health but also extremely caustic. Drain cleaners will corrode your pipes and could lead to destroyed drain lines, especially if the chemicals interact with the piping for long periods. Unfortunately, this extended interaction is likely if you’re dealing with a clog, as the drain cleaner will have just as much trouble as water does moving through your plumbing system.

In some cases, operating a snake can damage your drain and pipes. This depends on the overall condition of your pipes and how gently you operate the auger. For instance, older galvanized pipes covered in zinc are susceptible to scratches when using a drain snake. Additionally, it’s common for newbies to apply too much force when extending the snake, leading to scratches and related damage. You can also crack the porcelain with an electric auger if you’re snaking a toilet drain. If you’re using a manual snake or auger, the risk is minimal.

The spin cycle on your washer should initiate draining, but if you still find leftover water in the washing machine tub, you may need to drain it manually. To manually drain a washing machine, you’ll need to turn off the power supply and locate the drain hose, filter, and pump. Open or disconnect these parts and let the water drain into a bucket.

Yes, continuing to flush a clogged toilet is not likely to break up the clog. Instead, it will continue to put pressure on the clog while filling the bowl with more water, which can potentially cause the toilet to overflow—leading to an even bigger mess. Rather than repeatedly flushing, use a toilet plunger or plumber’s snake to dislodge the clog.