How to Clear a Clogged Sink
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A clogged or slow-draining sink is one of the most common household plumbing issues. In many cases, it is caused by a build-up of grease, soap, hair, food waste or debris around the plughole, waste pipe or trap.
Before calling for help, there are a few simple things you can try yourself. The key is to start gently and avoid anything that could damage the pipework or make the blockage worse.
What you will need
Before you start, have the following ready - all products available at Plumb Merchants:
- Rubber gloves
- A cloth or towel
- A bowl or bucket
- A sink plunger
- A drain cleaning tool or flexible sink un-blocker
- Washing-up liquid
- Hot water
Kevin’s advice is to avoid rushing straight to harsh chemicals. If you do use a drain cleaner, always follow the instructions carefully and never mix products.
Step 1: Remove anything visible
Start by checking the plughole.
Put on some gloves & remove any visible hair, food, soap build-up or debris from around the drain opening. If your sink has a removable plug, strainer or waste cover, take it out and clean it properly.
This simple step can often improve drainage straight away.
Step 2: Try hot water and washing-up liquid
For kitchen sinks, grease and fat can build up inside the waste pipe.
To loosen grease: Add a small amount of washing-up liquid to the plughole, then slowly pour hot (not boiling) water down the drain.
Do not use boiling water if you are unsure about your pipework or if the sink is cracked, delicate or made from a material that could be damaged by heat.
Step 3: Use a plunger
If the water is still draining slowly, try using a sink plunger to help shift soft blockages in the waste pipe.
Place the plunger over the plughole and make sure there is enough water in the sink to cover the rubber cup. Push down firmly, then pull up sharply. Repeat several times.
Kevin’s tip: make sure you create a good seal around the plughole. Without a seal, the plunger will not work properly.
Step 4: Use a drain cleaning tool
A flexible drain cleaning tool can help remove hair, soap and debris from just below the plughole.
Feed the tool carefully into the drain, twist gently and pull it back out. Clean off any debris and repeat if needed.
Take your time and do not force the tool. If it will not move easily, it's time to move onto another method!
Step 5: Check the trap if you are comfortable doing so
The trap (curved section of pipe underneath the sink) is designed to hold water and stop smells coming back up through the drain, but it can also collect debris.
If you are comfortable removing it, place a bowl or bucket underneath first. Unscrew the trap carefully, empty it, clean it out and refit it securely.
Once it is back in place, run water slowly and check for leaks.
If you are unsure, do not remove the trap.
Check out our 6 steps to getting advice blog so our team can help!
Preventing future blockages
- NEVER pour grease, fat or food waste down the sink. These can cool and harden inside the pipework, leading to blockages over time.
- Avoid using multiple drain cleaning products together. Mixing products can be dangerous and may damage pipework.
- Avoid forcing tools deep into the pipework. If something feels stuck, it is better to stop than risk damaging the waste pipe.
When should you ask for help?
You should ask for professional help if:
- Water is not draining at all
- The sink keeps blocking again after you clear it
- Water is backing up into another sink, bath or shower
- There is a strong smell that does not go away
- You notice leaking under the sink
- The pipework is old, loose, cracked or difficult to access
- You are not comfortable removing or refitting the trap
A slow drain is often simple, but repeated blockages can point to a bigger issue further along the pipework.
Need help finding the right product?
Whether you need a plunger, drain cleaning tool, trap, waste fitting or sealant, the Plumb Merchants team can help.
Show us clear photos in store, or contact us for product availability, pricing and practical advice.