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It’s been a summer of heatwave after heatwave but after all that hot sunshine, it was grimly predictable that the August Bank Holiday would somehow still be a washout, even if we do need the rain.

When heavy rain does return, drains on the side of your house can quickly clog up with leaves, twigs and other dirt and dust, while food waste down your kitchen drains can also clog up outdoor drains, including fat, grease and even rice and bits of food grime.

But there is one quick and easy way to get a blocked kitchen drains working again if you have time to get it sorted – and it doesn’t need expensive chemicals, just a regular bottle of washing up liquid, say experts.

According to plumbing and home maintenance firm Maintracts, outdoor drains that are connected to the kitchen sink – and only these – can be unblocked quickly using simple washing up liquid and hot water. Notably this tip is only for drains connected to the kitchen sink – don’t pour it down a drain that’s just for rainwater as chemical-based washing up liquid is bad for watercourses and can kill wildlife. For those drains, it’s better to use a natural drain cleaner such as vinegar and baking soda.

For the best chance of reducing impact on the environment, opt for a plant-based washing up liquid which doesn’t contain chemical surfactants.

Maintracts says in its online guidance: “Fat, oil and grease (commonly known as FOG) are among the biggest culprits behind blocked gullies and outside drains.

“When hot grease is poured down the sink, it may seem harmless. But as it cools in your foul water drain, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls. Eventually, this sticky mess collects other debris, such as food scraps, soap scum and dirt, creating a solid, immovable blockage.

“This is especially problematic in outdoor drains, which are more exposed to the elements and can easily become a magnet for garden debris, mud and litter, thereby exacerbating the blockage.”

To tackle this, simply use a mixture of washing up liquid and hot water.

They added: “One of the simplest ways to unblock outside drain blockages caused by fat is to pour boiling water mixed with a generous amount of washing-up liquid into the drain.

“The boiling water helps melt the fat, while the soap breaks it down, making it easier to flush away. Ensure to do this slowly to allow the heat and detergent time to work. Repeat the process several times for optimal results.”

Once you’ve unblocked the blockage, there are ways to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Maintracts adds: “Here’s how to keep your drains clear and flowing:

• Wipe plates and pans before washing to reduce the amount of residue going down the drain.

• Use strainers in your sinks to catch solid particles before they enter the system.

• Install a grease trap if you cook frequently or deal with large amounts of food waste.

• Keep gullies and drain covers clear of leaves, litter, and other outdoor debris to prevent surface water buildup.”