How to Unclog a Cork Bottle

May 15, 2023 0 Comments

If you’re like most people, you probably have a few handy household objects on hand to solve everyday problems. One of those is the humble wire hanger. It’s a great tool for keeping clothes wrinkle free, unclogging your drain, or even serving as an easy makeshift corkscrew! But this household staple is not without its risks. While it’s effective, hitting the bottle with a wire hanger can cause it to crack and split, ruining the wine below. That’s why you’ll want to do this trick very carefully, preferably before you have any wine left in the bottle.

This is a great option for those who don’t have a corkscrew on hand, but who also want to avoid damaging the bottle and risking breaking the cork. The hanger can be molded into the shape of a hook and then inserted into the top of the cork, where it will latch on with enough force to be pulled out. You’ll need to be fairly quick and precise to do this, but it can save the day if you’re in a real pinch.

Using a Bike Pump

This method requires a bit more prep work, as you’ll need to have a bike pump on hand that has a needle attachment. Once you have that in place, simply plunge the needle into the cork and start pumping! The increased air pressure will build up underneath the cork, easing it up the bottleneck until you can yank it out. This is a little riskier than some of the other methods, as pumping too quickly or too hard can lead to the bottle breaking. However, it’s a solid emergency solution when all else fails!

Another riskier but equally effective option is to take a pair of heavy duty pliers and a hammer. Wrap the bottle in a towel for protection and grab the hammer. Hold the backside of the hammer under the screw, and use it to wiggle the hook into the cork. Then, wiggle the hook around to break it up and pull it out. This can be quite messy, so it’s best to do this on a hard floor or a carpeted area with plenty of towels nearby.

If you haven’t yet gotten Debouchage liege around to recycling your synthetic or natural corks, check with local upcyclers and crafters to see what they might need them for. You can also give them to a local tree-planting charity. Otherwise, the only way we know of to recycle your corks is through Terracycle’s zero waste box program. They accept both synthetic and natural corks, but you’ll need to pay a fee to ship them in. You can find a collection box at your local grocery store or online. Otherwise, they’ll end up in landfills. Not a good idea! So, next time you’re in a pinch and need a quick and dirty fix, try these hacks out. They might save you a night of wine-related embarrassment! And don’t forget to stock up on those felt protectors for your chairs.