The Comprehensive Guide to Unclogging Your Sink

 

If you've ever had a clogged sink, then you know how annoying it can be. But if you learn a few tips and tricks about how to unclog your sink, you can take care of a backed-up drain without calling in a plumber.

First, you need to decide what kind of clog you're dealing with: A bathroom sink clog is far different from a kitchen sink clog. To determine what's causing your clogged sink, look for stagnant water and smells coming from the drain.

A clogged sink is usually caused by a combination of hair, soap residue, and grease that have accumulated in the drain trap right below your drain opening. A quick way to unclog a backed-up sink is to pour hot water directly down the drain.

The boiling water will break down any leftovers from the clog, like soap scum and grease, to make it easier for your sink to drain again. Be sure to flush your drain with water after you pour it down so that any remaining chemicals are washed out.

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1. Unclog Your Sink With Vinegar and Baking Soda

The baking soda and vinegar method is a tried-and-true method for unclogging a sink, and it works well for most sinks. It's important to follow the directions and let the drain sit for at least 20 minutes before running hot water.

2. Plunge Your Sink To Dislodge A Clog

Another tried-and-true sink clog solution is to plunge your drain with a toilet plunger. This will create enough suction to push the clog through your sink's drainpipe, which may allow you to clear the blockage.

Be sure to keep a small plunger in your cupboard for this task. Alternatively, you can buy one specially designed for a sink.

3. Use Salt and Boiling Water

For many clogged drains, boiling water can loosen the problem and restore your sink to good working order. Just be sure to avoid using tap water, as this can corrode metal pipes and destroy plastic drain pipes.

4. Try a Drain Snake

To tackle more stubborn clogs, consider a plumber's snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that snakes down the drain to dislodge stubborn clogs.

A plumber's snake can be a great choice for a sink clog that hasn't been cleared with vinegar, baking soda and hot water. If the clog is especially hard, though, you might want to call in a pro, suggests Sokolowski.

5. Try a Garbage Disposal

If your clogged sink isn't connected to a garbage disposal, you can resolve the problem by disconnecting the unit from the power source and turning it on. This will reset the disposal and clear the clog.

6. Use A Mini Plunger For Clogged Sinks

You can also use a regular bathroom plunger to unclog a backed-up drain, recommends Sokolowski. Just be sure to use a smaller plunger that's specifically designed for clogged sinks and avoid using the toilet plunger, which can irritate your skin.