How to Unclog Your Sink: A Step-by-Step Guide
A clogged sink is one of the most common household plumbing issues, but before you panic, there are several steps you can take to fix it yourself. Whether it’s your kitchen sink backing up after washing dishes or your bathroom sink draining slowly, Bear Plumbing, a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Greene and Montgomery counties, is here to help. We love our clients and go the extra mile to ensure your plumbing issues are resolved quickly and efficiently. If you need help during any of these steps, don’t hesitate to call us!
1. Assess the Situation
Start by determining where the clog is located. In the kitchen, clogs are often caused by food debris and grease, while in the bathroom, hair and soap scum are the usual culprits. Identifying the cause will help you decide on the best method for clearing the clog.
2. Very Hot Water (not quite boiling)
One of the simplest ways to clear a minor clog is by using boiling water. If your clog is caused by grease or soap, this method can work wonders.
Bring a large pot of water almost to a boil.
Carefully pour the hot water down the drain in stages, allowing it to work its way through the clog.
Wait a few minutes to see if the water starts to drain.
If the water drains freely, great! If not, move on to the next step.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
For a natural, chemical-free solution, try the baking soda and vinegar method. This combination creates a fizzing reaction that can break down stubborn clogs.
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain.
Follow it with 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
Cover the drain with a plug or cloth to keep the fizzing action contained.
Wait for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
This method works especially well for clogs caused by soap scum, hair, or food debris.
4. Use a Plunger
If the clog is more persistent, a plunger may be your next best option.
Ensure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the bottom of the plunger.
Place the plunger over the drain and create a tight seal.
Push and pull the plunger vigorously to create suction.
After 10-15 seconds, lift the plunger to see if the water starts draining.
If the water drains, you’ve solved the problem. If not, move on to the next method.
5. Check the Trap
If the clog persists, the issue may be in the P-trap under the sink.
Place a bucket under the trap to catch any water.
Loosen the nuts on either side of the trap and remove it.
Clean out any debris inside the trap.
Reassemble the trap and check if the sink drains properly.
6. Plumbing Snake (Drain Auger)
A plumbing snake is a tool designed to break through tough clogs deep in the pipes.
Insert the end of the snake into the drain and start turning the handle to feed it down the pipe.
Once you feel resistance, keep turning to break through the clog.
Pull the snake out slowly, cleaning it as you go.
Flush the drain with hot water.
If you’re not comfortable using a plumbing snake, Bear Plumbing is always here to help. Just give us a call, and we’ll take care of it for you.
7. Call Bear Plumbing!
If you’ve tried all these steps and the clog remains, don’t hesitate to contact Bear Plumbing. We’re a family-owned company that loves our clients and goes the extra mile to ensure your plumbing issues are resolved. Whether it’s a stubborn clog or a more serious problem, we’re here to help.
