Did you know that one of the most common plumbing issues is a clogged sink? If your kitchen sink is not draining, it can be a major inconvenience. After all, your sink is used multiple times a day for tasks like washing dishes and preparing food.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to unclog your sink on your own. Below, we’ve listed seven ways to get your sink draining properly again in no time.
1. Boil water and pour it down the drain.
One of the simplest ways to unclog a kitchen sink is to boil water and pour it down the drain. The heat from the water can help to break up any grease or debris that may be causing the clog.
2. Use a plunger.
If boiling water doesn’t do the trick, try using a plunger. Be sure to cover the overflow hole with the plunger before you start so that you can create a seal. Then, push and pull the plunger up and down to see if you can dislodge the clog.
3. Try a drain snake.
If a plunger doesn’t work, you may need to use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that can help to reach deep into your pipes to remove any debris that may be causing the clog. You can purchase a drain snake at most hardware stores.
4. Use baking soda and vinegar.
Another home remedy for a clogged sink is to use baking soda and vinegar. First, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then, add a cup of vinegar and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. Finally, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris.
5. Use dish soap and boiling water.
If you’re dealing with a grease clog, dish soap and boiling water can help. First, pour a generous amount of dish soap down the drain. Then, add enough boiling water to cover the soap and let it sit for 15 minutes. Finally, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining grease.
6. Use a wet/dry vacuum.
If you have a wet/dry vacuum, you can use it to suction out any debris that may be causing the clog. Just be sure to use the vacuum on the lowest setting so that you don’t damage your pipes.
7. Cut through the clog with a wire hanger.
If you’re dealing with a hair clog, a wire hanger can help. First, straighten out the hanger and make a small hook on one end. Then, insert the hanger into the drain and try to hook onto the clog. Finally, pull the clog out of the drain. If the clog is too far down the drain to reach, you may need to remove the P-trap (the U-shaped pipe under the sink) to access it.
If you’ve tried everything and your sink is still not draining properly, it may be time to call a professional. A licensed plumber will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and get your sink flowing properly again in no time without damaging your pipes.