To understand the utility of this method, one must first understand the chemistry. The reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) produces carbon dioxide gas. This is what creates the characteristic fizzing and bubbling. The popular theory is that this expanding gas creates pressure that pushes the clog through the pipes. However, plumbing systems are not sealed pressure chambers; the pressure from the gas simply escapes up through the toilet bowl, rather than forcing the blockage down the drain. Therefore, the "explosive" force of the reaction is largely a myth in the context of plumbing. The true cleaning power of this mixture lies in its ability to break down grime, not to mechanically move a solid obstruction.
Baking soda and vinegar is a mild, non-toxic helper for small organic clogs and deodorizing. But it’s not a heavy-duty drain cleaner. For best results: baking soda and vinegar for toilet clog