When we think of ice cubes, we usually imagine refreshment – in a whiskey, a cocktail or a glass of lemonade during the summer heat. But rarely does anyone think that ice cubes also have a much more… household role. Yes, you read that right. Ice can become your secret weapon against one of the most annoying household enemies: a clogged kitchen drain. This trick is not only effective, but also incredibly simple, environmentally friendly and – let's face it – almost fun.
Clogged drains are a classic in every kitchen. From grease and coffee grounds to those “just one eggshell” (which then mysteriously becomes too much) – all of this builds up and creates the perfect conditions for odors and poor water flow. And since no one wants to have to call a plumber every week or pour harsh chemicals down the drain, it’s good to know some simple tricks that we can do ourselves. One of them? Ice cubes. Humble but extremely effective – ready to save your drain and your patience.
Why bother with ice at all?
The sink takes a beating every day: food scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells (seriously, stop doing that), grease… all of it silently and viciously accumulates in the pipes. And before you say “what’s wrong with that smell?”, you’re already looking for the plumber’s number. But not yet! Ice cubes can clog drain pipes at least in part they solve.
Ice in action: How does it work?
The trick is ingeniously simple. Here's how to unclog a drain using ice:
- Fill the sink or directly down the drain with ice cubes. You can also use those pieces of ice that have been staring at you strangely since the beginning of winter.
- Wait a few seconds (or minutes, if you like a dramatic pause).
- Turn on the hot water. The stream of hot water will melt the ice, creating turbulence in the pipe. This “mini tornado” will pull grease, deposits, and other debris with it.
- Added bonus: Adding a little lemon juice or vinegar will kill two birds with one stone – it will clean the pipes and eliminate the unpleasant odor. And if you want to go really #masterlevel, add baking soda.
Why does this even work?
The ice mechanically pushes and rubs against the pipes, while the hot water melts away grease. Together they create a dynamic duo—a kind of Beyoncé and Jay-Z combo for your drain. Ice also helps eliminate odors and keeps things fresh—though, to be fair, it's not a magic bullet for all problems. But for regular maintenance? Perfect.
@dm3ltI swear I didn't think anything from TikTok would ever actually work♬ original sound – Desiree
What do those who have tried it say?
The TikTok video has garnered thousands of likes and comments from surprised households and curious DIY enthusiasts. One user wrote: "I can't believe I've lived without this trick for so many years. My husband thinks I'm a witch."
Next time you grab some ice from the freezer, think about it – maybe it’s not time for a gin and tonic, but rather a mini kitchen cleaning campaign. And while ice may be cold, its effect on the drain is more than hot. An easy, quick and surprisingly effective way to keep your kitchen clean – and you’ll look like a household wizard.
