- Topic: Best drain cleaner for grease (2026 guide)
- Best for: Kitchen sinks, slow drains, greasy buildup
- Cleaner types: Gel, enzyme, powder crystals
- Good to know: Grease clogs often need time + hot-water flush
- Updated: 2026
The best drain cleaner for grease is the one that matches your clog type and your plumbing setup. Grease usually builds up slowly, then traps food bits and turns a “slow drain” into a complete blockage.
In this 2026 guide, you’ll find grease-focused drain cleaners plus a simple way to pick the right type for your kitchen sink, disposal, or grease-prone line.
| Drain Cleaner | Type | Best For | Where It Fits | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drano Kitchen Gel | Gel (alkaline) | Greasy kitchen clogs | Kitchen sink lines | $6–$12 |
| Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Gel | Gel (alkaline) | Grease + food residue | Kitchen sink lines | $6–$14 |
| Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner | Enzyme | Grease buildup maintenance | Kitchen + grease traps | $15–$30 |
| Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria | Enzyme | Regular grease control | Sinks + slow drains | $20–$35 |
| Thrift Drain Cleaner (lye crystals) | Powder crystals | Stubborn grease clogs | Metal pipes (use care) | $12–$25 |
| Instant Power Crystal Lye | Powder crystals | Heavy kitchen clogs | Kitchen sinks (use care) | $6–$15 |
Best Gel Drain Cleaner for Grease Clogs
Drano Kitchen Gel
If you want a simple “pour-and-wait” option, a kitchen gel is a common pick for grease-heavy clogs. A gel clings to the pipe walls longer than thin liquids, which helps when grease coats the line.
Use it when the drain is slow or partially blocked. Follow the label timing, then flush with hot water. If you also deal with toilet backups, see the best drain cleaner for clogged toilet for options made for that problem.
Best All-Around Gel for Grease and Food Residue
Liquid-Plumr Pro-Strength Gel
This gel is helpful when grease is mixed with food bits, because it’s made for organic messes in the line. It can be a good “first chemical step” before you move to more potent powders.
Use it sparingly if you have older plumbing. If the sink is fully backed up and the gel doesn’t move water after a full attempt, stop and switch to a tool-based approach.
Best Enzyme Drain Cleaner for Grease Maintenance
Green Gobbler Enzyme Drain Cleaner
Enzyme cleaners work best for grease buildup that keeps coming back. They don’t rely on heat or harsh reactions. Instead, they help break down organic residue over time.
This is a wise choice for weekly or monthly maintenance, especially if your kitchen drain often gets slow. It pairs well with better kitchen habits, like wiping pans before washing. For greasy kitchen cleanup outside the drain, the best degreaser for the stove top can help reduce what ends up in the pipes.
Best Enzyme Option for Regular Use
Bio-Clean Drain Septic Bacteria
This type is made for routine use when you want a gentler approach. It’s helpful when the drain isn’t entirely blocked, but you can tell grease is building up.
Use it consistently, and give it time to work. Many people see better results when they run warm water briefly first, apply the product, then avoid using the sink for several hours.
Best Powder Drain Cleaner for Stubborn Grease
Thrift Drain Cleaner (Lye Crystals)
Powder crystals are often used when grease is thick, and the clog won’t respond to gels. This route can work quickly, but it requires extra care, as these products can react strongly.
Only use powders exactly as directed. Do not mix with any other cleaner. If you’re not sure about your pipe type or your drain has standing water that won’t move, a plumber or a drain snake can be the safer next step.
Best Budget Powder for Heavy Kitchen Clogs
Instant Power Crystal Lye
This is another powder option that many people buy for tough clogs. It’s often chosen when you want a lower-cost fix, and you’re comfortable following strict safety steps.
Use a measured dose, keep the area ventilated, and keep kids and pets away until you flush thoroughly. If you want a non-chemical step first, try a plunger or a drain snake before powders.
How to Choose the Best Drain Cleaner for Grease
Match the cleaner to the clog
- Slow drain + grease smell: enzyme cleaner (maintenance)
- Slow drain + food residue: kitchen gel
- Stubborn clog that keeps coming back: powder crystals (with care)
Know when to stop
If you’ve tried one product correctly and water still won’t move, don’t keep stacking chemicals. Switch to a snake, remove the trap, or call a plumber.
Keep grease out after you clear it
Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing. Also, run hot water briefly after doing dishes. For appliance residue that can contribute to kitchen gunk, the best cleaner for the dishwasher may help reduce buildup and odors.
FAQs
A: For many kitchens, a grease-focused gel works for active clogs, while an enzyme cleaner helps for regular maintenance.
A: Yes. They work best for buildup and slow drains, but they may take longer than gels.
A: Hot water can help flush grease after treatment, but boiling water is not safe for every pipe type. Use care.
A: No. Don’t mix products. Pick one method at a time, then flush well with water.
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