Same simple tools I recommended for your DIY attempts – just used professionally to reach deeper clogs without pipe damage or toxic chemicals.
My 2 Core Tools
Abfluss-Reinigungsstäbe (Drain Cleaning Sticks)
- Where to buy: Migros, Jumbo, Galaxus.ch (3-pack ~8 CHF)[1][4]
- What they do: Flexible plastic strips with barbs grab hair, food, soap scum from the first 1-2m of pipe
- Pro advantage: I use longer versions (5m+) and rotate them systematically to clear the entire trap bend
Pömpel (Plunger / Saugglocke)
- Where to buy: Migros, Hornbach (10-15 CHF)[2][8]
- What it does: Creates vacuum pressure to dislodge soft clogs (soap + hair balls)
- Pro advantage: Special flat plungers for sinks/showers + technique to push clog through first bend
Why No Chemicals?
- Damage pipes (especially older Zürich rentals)
- Hausverwaltung liability if pipes corrode
- Toxic fumes in apartments
- Rarely work on deep clogs anyway
When These Aren’t Enough (5% of jobs)
Upgrade to pro tools – need to probably order a professional service (still chemical-free):
- Drain snake/spiral (mechanische Spirale) – reaches 10m+[5][6]
- Mini pipe camera – see exact blockage location
- High-pressure water jet – for grease/main line (Hausverwaltung pays)
Try These Yourself First
90% of tenant clogs clear with:
- Drain sticks → pull out visible hair
- Pömpel → 10 pumps with water seal
- Hot water → kettle flush
Read more in detail what you can try yourself first to unclog your drain:
Simple things you can try before booking a drain unblock in Zürich
Still blocked? WhatsApp chat for quick questions and bookings +41 77 205 98 42.
Same tools, pro results, No Fix No Bill.