What to do if your Sink is Clogged
A clogged sink may be a common problem, but it’s still a huge pain. Whether it’s in your kitchen or bathroom, a slow-draining or completely blocked sink needs to be fixed quickly to prevent further plumbing issues. Fortunately, there are a few ways to unclog a sink using household items and tools. If you find yourself faced with a clogged sink, here are a few things you can try before calling for help.
1. Remove Any Visible Blockage
Before you try anything else, check to see if there are visible obstructions in the drain. Food particles, hair, soap scum, or other debris may be blocking the drain.
To clear visible debris, use a pair of gloves and manually remove any buildup near the drain opening. In bathroom sinks, hair and soap buildup are common culprits. A wire hanger or a drain snake can help pull out tangled hair and debris. If your sink has a pop-up stopper, remove it to get better access to the drain.
Once you clear these blockages out, you can test your sink to see if it drains. If not, you can try some other strategies.
2. Try Baking Soda and Vinegar
This method can help break down minor clogs without using harsh drain cleaners. To start, pour one cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow it with one cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
3. Use a Plunger
If the sink still won’t drain, a plunger can help create pressure and dislodge the clog. This is a classic method that you’re likely familiar with. Start by filling the sink with a few inches of water to create a seal. Position the plunger over the drain and plunge up and down with force for about 20–30 seconds. If the clog seems to loosen, flush the drain with water to make sure it’s unclogged.
4. Use a Drain Snake
Drain snakes are an incredibly valuable tool to keep around. For truly stubborn clogs, a drain snake can snag the clog and remove it entirely. To use a drain snake, insert it into the pipe and gently twist and push it through the clog. Pull out any debris and repeat as needed. Once the clog is removed, rinse the sink with hot water to make sure everything is clear.
5. Clean the P-Trap
If none of the above methods work, the clog might be stuck in the P-trap—the U-shaped pipe beneath the sink. Before you call a plumber, it’s worth taking a peek to see if the P-trap is the issue. To check, place a bucket under the P-trap. This will catch any water that comes out. With the bucket in place, unscrew the connectors and remove the pipe (we recommend wearing gloves!). Once the P-trap is removed, take a look inside and remove any debris. You may want to take a paper towel and wipe out any gunk. Then, reassemble the P-trap and run water to check if the problem is fixed.
Should I call a plumber?
If your sink is still clogged, the issue may be deeper in the plumbing system. A professional plumber can diagnose the problem and find a long-term solution.
Need help with a clogged sink? Aspen Plumbing is here to help.
We offer repairs for clogged sinks for people in Fort Collins, Colorado, and surrounding areas. Don’t stress about fixing a clogged sink yourself! Our team can get the job done in no time. Reach out today to schedule your appointment.
