The Ultimate Guide How to Unclog Your Kitchen Sink
A clogged kitchen sink is one of the most common household plumbing problems. Whether it’s a slow drain or a complete blockage, you don’t have to be a professional plumber to tackle minor clogs. Below are several do-it-yourself methods to try before calling a PlumberHelp professional.
DIY Drain Cleaner (Vinegar & Baking Soda)
Why This Works:
- It’s an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
- The fizzing chemical reaction often dislodges minor blockages.
Steps
- Remove the sink stopper or drain cover.
- Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar.
- Wait 10 minutes for the mixture to bubble and work its magic.
- Rinse with boiling Water.
- Optional: Flush with a pipe-protection product (like PipeShield) to discourage future clogs.
Pro Tip: This method is best for slow-draining sinks rather than entirely blocked drains.
Use a Sink Plunger
Best For: Standing Water in the sink.
- Using a wet rag, block the Other Drain (if you have a double sink). This helps direct the pressure to the blockage.
- Add Water so the plunger’s bell is submerged.
- Plunge with an emphasis on the upward pull—that’s where most of the suction force is generated.
- Check if the Water drains quickly afterward.
Remember: Always use a separate plunger for the kitchen to avoid cross-contamination with bathroom germs.
Coat Hanger Hack
- Create a Hook: Bend the end of a wire coat hanger with pliers.
- Insert and Wiggle: Slide it into the drain to remove or dislodge any debris (food scraps, hair, etc.).
- Proceed With Caution: If you have a garbage disposal, turn off the power (or pull the fuse) before putting anything down the drain.
Drain Snake
Why You Need It
- A plunger or coat hanger might not reach the pipe if the clog is further down the pipe.
How to Use
- Feed the drain snake (sometimes called an auger) down the sink drain.
- Rotate the snake handle to break up or hook clogs.
- Remove the clog slowly as you retract the snake.
- Check the drain flow by running Water afterward.
Advanced Approach: If this doesn’t work, remove the P-trap beneath the sink and feed the snake directly into the horizontal branch line. Place a bucket under the trap to catch Water.
Wet/Dry Vacuum (Shop Vac)
A wet/dry vacuum can provide powerful suction to clear clogs—and even help retrieve lost items.
- Set to ‘Liquids’: Ensure your shop vac is ready for Water.
- Cover the Vent and create a tight seal around the drain.
- Turn It On and let the vacuum pull out whatever is causing the clog.
- Check the Collection Tank for grease, hair, or other debris that might be the culprit.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve exhausted all DIY options and your kitchen sink is still backing up—or you’re dealing with a significant blockage—reach out to PlumberHelp. Our licensed plumbers have the proper tools and expertise to:
- Snake the line inside the wall using professional-grade equipment.
- For a thorough clean, size the blades to match your pipe diameter (e.g., 2-inch blades for a 2-inch drain).
- Prevent future clogs with long-term maintenance advice.
Common Kitchen Sink Backup Scenario
A customer recently described standing Water on both sides of a double sink, with Water immediately backing up when the dishwasher runs. This often indicates grease, sludge, or soap scum buildup in the lines. If removing the trap and manually clearing it doesn’t solve the issue, it’s likely time for a branch line cleaning by a professional.
Key Takeaways
- Try DIY First: vinegar/baking soda, plunging, a coat hanger, a drain snake, or a wet/dry vac.
- Safety Matters: Turn off power for garbage disposal before working.
- Know When to Call: Persistent or complex clogs may require professional plumbers.
- To prevent Future Buildup, Dispose of grease properly, run hot Water after dishwashing, and schedule routine drain cleanings.
Need immediate help?
- Contact PlumberHelp at 888-886-3881 for fast, effective service.
- Or book an appointment online to get a professional on-site.
Stop fighting stubborn clogs, and let PlumberHelp restore your sink to optimal performance. A clear drain is just one call away!