If you’ve ever owned a home, you know the drill—clogged drains are bound to happen. And for many, the first instinct is to grab an over-the-counter drain cleaner. But before you twist off that cap, take a minute to consider what’s actually in those bottles—and what those chemicals can do not only to your health, but also to your plumbing.
For renters, though, here’s the good news: you don’t have to mess with any of it. At Cambridge Place Apartments, a quick call to your landlord means you can skip the harsh fumes and pipe damage. Professional maintenance can have your drain cleared quickly—and correctly—so you can get back to your day without the hassle.
Why Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Aren’t Worth It
Drain cleaners are formulated to break down stubborn clogs—things like hair, grease, soap buildup, and food scraps. To do that, they rely on heavy-duty synthetic chemicals like sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid. These substances are powerful, but they come with risks. You may not realize it when you pour the liquid down your drain, but these cleaners can:
- Burn your skin or eyes on contact
- Emit lingering toxic fumes
- Cause serious health symptoms like chest pain or vomiting if accidentally inhaled or ingested
Even more concerning? Those same chemicals can corrode your pipes. That quick-fix pour could actually lead to leaks, cracks, or long-term damage that costs thousands to repair—something homeowners have to worry about, but renters don’t.
DIY Drain Cleaning Often Doesn’t Solve the Problem
Even when drain cleaners appear to work, they might only remove the top layer of buildup—leaving the real blockage behind. That means clogs can come back fast, and you might end up in a frustrating loop of pouring in more chemicals every few weeks. And every round increases the risk of damage to your plumbing.
The Safe and Smart Approach for Renters
If your drain is slow or completely clogged, the safest and smartest thing to do is let your landlord or maintenance team take care of it. They have the proper tools, experience, and equipment to clear the drain without resorting to corrosive chemicals. It usually takes just a few minutes and leaves your pipes—and your lungs—much better off.
One of the benefits of apartment living at Cambridge Place is knowing help is just a phone call away. No need to research chemical labels or worry about what you’re inhaling. Our maintenance team is ready to respond quickly and get things flowing again with no fuss and no mess.