Clogged sinks are a common problem in every home, but they don’t have to be constant headaches. From simple DIY tricks to signs, it was time to call the experts, so we asked plumbing and home experts for the best advice. In this Redfin article, experts share 10 must-see tips for safely and effectively removing sinks, whether they are dealing with bathroom sinks stuck in a Portland artisan home or with kitchen drains backed up in a modern home in Austin, Texas.
1. Start easily with hot water and a plunger
“If your sink is running slowly, try using a plunger to use a large amount of hot water. It’s a safe and effective first step for minor clogs,” says Ciriello Plumbing. “This combo works particularly well in bathroom sinks that tend to cause lighter buildup. Avoid using chemical drainage vacuums that can corrode pipes and complicate future repairs.”
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2. Try natural baking soda and vinegar mix
“One of the easiest ways to clean up a clogged sink is to use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water,” says a nearby plumbing and drain. “This method is pipe-friendly and is surprisingly effective against mild blockages. Beware of chemical cleaners, especially if you’re in a purification system. They can do more harm than good.”
3. Avoid quick chemical fixes
“Chemical drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, but they can damage the plumbing and lead to bigger issues later,” warning Red One Plumbing. “Instead, try a plunger or snake first. Even hot water can do the trick for minor clogs.”
4. Use drainage snakes for stubborn clogs
“For more stubborn blockages, I recommend starting with baking soda and vinegar and following up with a drainage snake to reach deeper debris,” says Best Bond Clean Gold Coast. “This method will naturally divide the grease or soap scum to avoid damage to the pipes. If the dive or meandering doesn’t work and multiple drains are affected, it’s time to invite experts.”
5. Try professional grade tools for difficult occlusion
“To tackle more stringent sink clogs, we use a professional grade drain vacuum or snake to remove them,” North Point Rental recommends. “Slowly feed the cable into the pipe, spin it until you feel resistance, then continue until you clear it. Rinse with hot water.”
6. Disassemble the P-Trap if necessary
“In the case of blockages near the P-trap, you can even disassemble a snake or slip joint pipe in your hand,” says Ace Hardware Home Services. “Be prepared for a bit of confusion, but I hope that if the blockage gets deeper, it’s important to give it a review from the experts.”
7. Know when to submit a professional
“If water is backed up with other equipment, multiple drains are slow, or if clogs are back, it’s time to call the plumber,” the cleaning tactic explains. “These symptoms usually indicate deeper issues with the mainline or pipe.
8. Understand what’s causing the clogging
“Clogs in the kitchen sink are usually from scraps of grease and hoods, but clogs in the bathroom are more likely from hair, soap or improper flushing,” says Mrs. Michael. “Understanding the cause of the blockage will allow you to choose the right solution and prevent it in the future.”
9. Build wise habits to prevent future problems
“In the kitchen, avoid pouring grease into the drains and using strainers to catch any debris,” says Housekeeping in Dubai. “In the bathroom, you regularly drain with hot water and clean your hair from the stopper. These small steps go a long way.”
10. Beware of “flashable” products
“Some products have flashable labels, but in many cases it causes problems,” says Swan’s professional plumbing. “To avoid clogs, stick to toilet paper only and not wash away wipes, cotton pads or similar items. Prevention is truly your best line of defense.”
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Stay chock with smart habits and early action
Clogs are the easiest way to deal with them when caught early. In many cases, a little adjustment of the routine can be prevented. Start with the most invasive methods and escalate only if necessary. If your DIY step doesn’t work or multiple drains are affected, a professional plumber can safely diagnose and resolve the issue.
