How to Unclog a Sink: The Fastest Methods That Actually Work

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A clogged sink is one of the most common home problems — and the good news is that you can fix it yourself 90% of the time. Whether your sink is draining slowly or completely backed up, this guide gives you simple, step-by-step methods that actually work (without needing a plumber).

We’ll start with the easiest fixes, then move to the methods that guarantee results.

1. Start With Boiling Water (Fastest Fix)

Boiling water can melt and flush away grease buildup — one of the biggest causes of kitchen sink clogs.

How to do it:

  1. Boil a full pot or kettle of water.
  2. Slowly pour it down the drain in 3 stages.
  3. Wait 20–30 seconds between pours.

When this works best:

  • Grease clogs
  • Soap scum buildup
  • Minor slow drains

If the water still pools, move to the next method.

2. Use Baking Soda + Vinegar (Natural Chemical Reaction)

This combo breaks down soft buildup in the drain.

What you need:

  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 1 cup white vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Pour the baking soda into the drain.
  2. Add the vinegar immediately.
  3. Let the reaction fizz for 10–15 minutes.
  4. Flush with hot water.

This works great for:

  • Bathroom sinks
  • Kitchen drains with odors
  • Early-stage clogs

If the sink is still clogged, move on.

3. Plunge the Sink (Yes, It Works)

Most people don’t realize that plungers aren’t just for toilets — they work extremely well for sinks.

How to plunge properly:

  1. Fill the sink with 2–3 inches of water.
  2. Position the plunger directly over the drain.
  3. Pump firmly for 10–20 seconds.
  4. Pull up quickly to release pressure.

Pro tip:

If it’s a double kitchen sink, cover the other drain with a wet towel or stopper to create pressure.

This often clears the clog instantly.

4. Snake the Drain (Best for Hair & Deep Clogs)

A cheap $5–$10 plastic drain snake is one of the most effective tools you can own.

How it works:

  1. Remove the sink stopper.
  2. Insert the snake into the drain.
  3. Push down until you hit resistance.
  4. Twist and pull up.
  5. Repeat until the drain is clear.

Common things you’ll pull out:

  • Hair
  • Gunk
  • Food waste
  • Slime buildup

If you’ve never cleaned a sink before, prepare yourself — it’s disgusting but effective.

5. Check & Clean the P-Trap (Guaranteed Fix)

If none of the above worked, the clog is almost definitely in the P-trap — the U-shaped pipe under your sink.

This fix sounds intimidating but is actually simple.

What you need:

  • Bucket
  • Towels
  • Channel-lock pliers (optional)

How to clean the P-trap:

  1. Put the bucket under the pipe.
  2. Unscrew the slip nuts on both sides of the P-trap.
  3. Remove the trap and dump debris into the bucket.
  4. Clean the inside thoroughly.
  5. Reattach and hand-tighten.

After doing this, your sink will almost always drain perfectly.

6. Try a Wet/Dry Vacuum (Powerful Option)

If you own a shop vac, you can literally vacuum the clog out.

How to do it:

  1. Switch the vacuum to “wet” mode.
  2. Create a seal over the drain using a rag.
  3. Turn on the vacuum for 5–10 seconds.

This can suck out hair, sludge, and hidden debris deep in the pipes.

7. When to Call a Plumber

It’s time to get help if:

  • Multiple drains in your home clog at once
  • Water backs up into your sink from the dishwasher
  • You smell sewage
  • The clog keeps returning
  • Drains gurgle loudly

These signs may indicate:

  • A main line blockage
  • Vent pipe issue
  • Deeper plumbing problems

Final Tips to Prevent Future Clogs

  • Install a drain catcher
  • Don’t pour grease down the drain
  • Run hot water after using the sink
  • Clean stoppers monthly

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