Tips to Unclog a Sink

Most people have experienced the home challenge of unclogging a sink. You want to prevent water damage so you need to do something quickly. Plus, you likely need access to the sink in your bathroom or kitchen. If you’re in this situation, use the tips below to move forward.

Boiling Water

One of the easiest ways to get a handle on a clog is by pouring very hot water down the drain. Heat a kettle of water and pour it right into the drain. The extreme heat can dissolve things like soap and grease that might be blocking the pipe. If the clog is minor, this could entirely take care of it. If it doesn’t work, give it another shot or two and then move on to other options.

Plunger

Plungers can also be used for clogs if they are near the drain. The right option is a plunger with a flat bottom for sink clogs, so don’t use the one you have for your toilet. Cover the drain with the plunger and make sure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the bell of the plunger. Push down and pull up vigorously a few times. The suction can break up clogs and push them down the pipe.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

This combination will help clear clogs without using chemicals. Make sure any standing water is removed before pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow that up with the same amount of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a wet cloth or plug so the reaction stays below the surface. The fizzing can break down things like hair, gunk, and grime that might be blocking the pipe. After around 15 minutes, use boiling water to flush out the debris and the cleaning mixture.

Plumber’s Snake

Finally, consider using a plumber’s snake for tough clogs. Feed the snake down into the drain until you feel the blockage. Next, twist the snake and push it through the clog. Snakes can push through a clog and break it down or let you hook it and pull it out.

Use the methods above and you can remove most small clogs without the need for a professional. However, if these techniques don’t clear up the issue, it’s time to call a plumber. Only an expert can get a blockage that is further down the pipe system or more severe than you can handle.