Clogged drains are messy business, and clearing them is big business. We spend $150 million a year on Drano, Liquid Plummer, and other chemical drain cleaners.

Bob Karpel of "Consumer Reports" just tested chemical drain cleaners, as well as plungers and other mechanical devices. He clogged test drains with various problem substances, including fat, soap, hair, and toothpaste.

The tests showed that most of the chemical drain cleaners even though they contain strong chemicals weren't very effective. Even after half an hour, very little of the pipe had opened up.

Crystal drain cleaners did better, but the chemicals in those are even more dangerous.

"They're quite caustic. They produce a gas and a vapor and the pipes themselves actually get hot," Karpel said.

Mechanical devices are much safer, according to "Consumer Reports," and quicker-acting. Top ratings go to the Drain King VIP1 (cost $20) a little device you hook up to a hose. It uses water pressure and works fast.

Another good choice is a canister of compressed gas. You put it over the drain and release a burst of air. The $20 CLR Power Plumber Pressurized Drain Opener Plunger Kit can be reused 15 times.

And "Consumer Reports" says the $6 Master Plunger is also a good tool to have on hand. Testers found its new accordion style even more effective than the conventional design.

"Consumer Reports" says one of the best ways to keep drain clogs at a minimum is to use strainer covers in your sinks, and avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink.