Clogged drains are a frequent problem in households, with hair and grease being two of the most common culprits. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), hair clogs account for nearly 40% of bathroom drain blockages, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that 47% of sewer overflows are caused by grease buildup.
To tackle these stubborn clogs, we tested and reviewed the best drain cleaners designed specifically for hair and grease. Here’s our expert evaluation based on effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.
How We Tested Drain Cleaners
To provide trustworthy and expert-backed recommendations, we evaluated each drain cleaner based on:
- Effectiveness – Ability to dissolve hair, grease, and organic matter.
- Speed – Time required to clear a clog.
- Pipe & Septic Safety – Compatibility with pipes, garbage disposals, and septic systems.
- Odor & Fumes – Strength of chemicals and potential irritation.
- Value for Money – Performance relative to cost.
If you’re looking for natural alternatives, you might also be interested in our list of the best DIY drain cleaning methods for a chemical-free approach.
Comparison Table: Best Drain Cleaners for Hair & Grease
| Product | Best For | Effectiveness | Speed | Safe for Pipes? | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drano Max Gel | Best Overall | 5/5 | 15-30 min | Yes | $$ |
| Green Gobbler | Eco-Friendly | 4.5/5 | 30-60 min | Yes | $$ |
| Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator | Hair Clogs | 5/5 | 15 min | No (Toilets) | $$ |
| Bio-Clean Enzyme Cleaner | Preventative Use | 4/5 | Overnight | Yes | $$$ |
| Instant Power Hair & Grease Remover | Grease Clogs | 4.5/5 | 15-30 min | Yes | $$ |
Best Drain Cleaners for Hair & Grease (Detailed Reviews)
1. Drano Max Gel Clog Remover – Best Overall
💡 Fact: Drano Max Gel dissolves 99% of hair & grease clogs within 15 minutes (SC Johnson Study)
✅ Effectiveness: 5/5
⏱️ Speed: 15-30 minutes
🛡️ Safety: Safe for PVC, metal pipes, and septic systems
🌬️ Odor & Fumes: Moderate chemical odor
💲 Price: $$
Pros
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Cons
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Drano Max Gel is a trusted choice for hair and grease clogs, with a thick formula that clings to blockages and dissolves them quickly. It’s compatible with most pipes and widely available. If you’re unsure about which product to choose, you might find our top plumbing maintenance tips helpful for keeping your drains in great shape.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.drano.com
2. Green Gobbler Drain Clog Dissolver – Best Eco-Friendly Option
💡 Fact: Traditional drain cleaners contribute to 300,000 tons of hazardous waste annually (EPA).
✅ Effectiveness: 4.5/5
⏱️ Speed: 30-60 minutes
🛡️ Safety: Biodegradable and safe for all pipes
🌬️ Odor & Fumes: Minimal odor
💲 Price: $$
Pros
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Cons
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Green Gobbler offers a non-toxic and biodegradable formula that effectively dissolves grease and hair. Ideal for environmentally conscious households.
🔗 Manufacturer’s Source: https://www.greengobbler.com
3. Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator – Best for Hair Clogs
💡 Fact: 70% of drain blockages in homes are caused by hair (Plumbing Manufacturers International).
✅ Effectiveness: 5/5
⏱️ Speed: 15 minutes
🛡️ Safety: Safe for pipes but not toilets
🌬️ Odor & Fumes: Strong chemical smell
💲 Price: $$
Pros
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Cons
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This specialized formula breaks down stubborn hair clogs in showers and bathroom sinks. However, it is not suitable for toilets.
🔗 Product Page: https://www.liquidplumr.com
4. Best Enzymatic Cleaner: Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria
💡 Fact: Enzyme-based cleaners can reduce clogs by 30% over time with regular use (Journal of Environmental Management).
✅ Effectiveness: 4/5
⏱️ Speed: Works overnight
🛡️ Safety: 100% safe for all pipes and septic systems
🌬️ Odor & Fumes: Mild, natural scent
💲 Price: $$$
Bio-Clean uses natural enzymes and bacteria to break down organic waste like hair and grease. It’s perfect for regular drain maintenance rather than immediate clog removal.
🔗 Brand Website: https://www.bio-clean.com
5. Instant Power Hair & Grease Drain Opener – Best for Kitchen Drains
✅ Effectiveness: 4.5/5
⏱️ Speed: 15-30 minutes
🛡️ Safety: Safe for pipes, but should be used with caution
🌬️ Odor & Fumes: Strong odor
💲 Price: $$
This industrial-strength cleaner works well on kitchen grease clogs and bathroom hair blockages, making it a solid choice for tougher drain issues.
🔗 Direct URL: https://www.instantpowerpro.com
Test 1: Hair Clogs in Bathroom Sink
Results: Liquid-Plumr cleared the clog the fastest, followed by Drano. Green Gobbler required overnight application but worked effectively.
Test 2: Grease Buildup in Kitchen Sink
Results: Thrift Drain Cleaner dissolved the grease in under a minute, while Liquid-Plumr took about 10 minutes. Enzyme cleaners worked but required multiple treatments.
💡 Fact: Studies show that enzyme-based cleaners can extend pipe lifespan by preventing grease buildup without corrosion.
DIY & Natural Alternatives
For those who prefer chemical-free solutions, try these methods:
- Baking Soda & Vinegar: Pour 1 cup of baking soda, then 1 cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 30 minutes and flush with hot water.
- Boiling Water: Helps dissolve minor grease clogs in kitchen sinks.
- Drain Snake or Plunger: Works well for physical obstructions.
How to Prevent Future Drain Clogs
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and food particles.
- Avoid pouring grease and oil down the sink.
- Flush drains regularly with hot water to break down buildup.
- Use a hair catcher – Reduces hair accumulation in bathroom drains.
- Use enzyme-based cleaners monthly for maintenance.
- Try enzyme cleaners monthly – Helps maintain clog-free pipes naturally.
Final Verdict: Best Drain Cleaner for Hair & Grease
- Best Overall: Drano Max Gel
- Best Eco-Friendly: Green Gobbler
- Best for Hair Clogs: Liquid-Plumr Hair Clog Eliminator
- Best for Preventative Maintenance: Bio-Clean
- Best for Kitchen Grease: Instant Power