How to Unclog a Sink Without Calling a Plumber
Sinks can get clogged with hair, soap scum, food pieces and other debris that should be flushed away quickly. If the clog persists, however, it might be time to call your plumber.
The first step to unclogging a sink is to figure out what kind of clog you're dealing with, says cleaning expert Alicia Sokolowski of AspenClean. For instance, a backed-up bathroom sink is different from a clogged kitchen sink, which may include a garbage disposal.
If it's the latter, Sokolowski suggests trying a plunger before calling a plumber. You can also try a DIY baking soda and vinegar drain cleaner, which works well for most clogs.
Stoppers: Many sinks have a stopper that can be closed to keep water in the basin. These usually feature a lift rod, pivot rod, spring clip, clevis strap and associated hardware.
Wire hook: A sturdy wire that's bendable at one end is a common tool for loosening drain stoppers and strainers, which can obstruct the flow of water in bathrooms with long hair or a buildup of soap scum. Insert the wire into the sink drain, twist it counterclockwise or pull it upward to free up the blockage.
Caustic soda: This chemical can burn if you're not careful, but it can also unclog a sink. Pour about a cup of caustic soda down the drain and leave it for 20-30 minutes before running hot water.
Baking soda and vinegar: Another quick fix for a clogged bathroom sink is to mix up a mixture of half a cup of baking soda with a cup of white vinegar, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. The baking soda will create a fizzy reaction that helps break up the clog, and the vinegar will help dislodge any hardened substances in the drain.
Depending on the type of sink, it may take several rinses to clear out the clog completely, but this is one of the easiest ways to get your drain back in working order.
A wet & dry shop vacuum can be a great tool for clearing a clogged sink. This technique is especially effective for pipes in basements, where a vacuum can help clear clogs by drawing them up the pipe and into the vacuum bag.
Boiling water can crack porcelain, so you'll need to use a non-porcelain sink for this trick. It's a good idea to remove as much standing water from the sink as possible before boiling, and you should be able to unclog most sinks with this method.
Toilet plunger: A standard toilet plunger can be used to unclog a sink, but it's better to use a mini plunger specifically for this purpose, which is easier to maneuver and has a more powerful suction. Fill the sink with warm water halfway, place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down a few times to make sure you're creating a tight seal.
If the plunger doesn't work, consider using a plumbing snake to unclog your sink. This will require a bit more effort, but it's worth the extra work to prevent your sink from backing up in the future. You can also rent drain cleaning equipment from The Home Depot for more stubborn clogs.
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