How to Unblock Your Kitchen Sink in 6 Easy Steps

Tom Volpe November 21, 2022

When your kitchen sink becomes clogged, it is a total pain. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also be a huge hassle trying to figure out how to unblock it. In this blog post, we're going to walk you through six easy steps that will help you unblock your kitchen sink in no time. Keep reading for more information!

1. Try boiling water to clear minor blockages


A blocked sink can be a nuisance, and often the cause is a build-up of grease and other food waste. While there are many commercial products available to clear blockages, boiling water is a simple and effective way to solve the problem. The high temperature of the water will break down grease and other organic matter, allowing it to be flushed away.


In addition, boiling water can also help to dissolve any hair or soap scum that may be causing the blockage. To use this method, simply use boiled water from your boiling tap or kettle and pour it slowly down the drain. Let the water sit for a few minutes before flushing with cold water. With regular use, boiling water can help to keep your drains clear and prevent minor blockages from becoming major problems.


If your drain pipes are brand-new or are made of PVC, we recommend you don't pour boiling water down your sink - try one of the other methods below.

2. Use a plunger to dislodge blockages

When it comes to clearing clogs from drains and pipes in the kitchen, a plunger is often the tool of choice. This simple tool can be used to dislodge blockages and help restore proper flow through your kitchen sink. One of the key advantages of using a plunger for this purpose is its ability to create suction. When you push down on the plunger cup and pull back quickly, you create a vortex that helps draw debris up and out of the drain. This can be especially effective for breaking up congealed grease or food particles that are causing a blockage in the pipes.


In addition to its suction capabilities, a plunger also works well because it can push through most types of material without leaving behind any residue or damage. Although other tools like plumbers' snakes may be more suited to clearing tougher blockages, they are typically more labour-intensive and require special equipment to safely handle them. Ultimately, choosing to use a plunger when tackling stubborn clogs in your kitchen sink makes sense when you consider these benefits along with its convenience and affordability relative to more specialized tools.

3. Use bicarbonate of soda and vinegar to dissolve stubborn blockages

When you have a kitchen sink that has become clogged, there are many different ways to go about clearing it. Some people use chemical drain cleaners or heavy-duty plumber's snakes, but these approaches can be messy and can cause significant damage to your pipes if they aren't used properly. A better option is to use bicarbonate of soda and vinegar to dissolve stubborn blockages.


This simple home remedy uses basic ingredients that are easy to find, inexpensive, and non-toxic. What's more, this method works quickly so that you can get water flowing through your pipes again in no time. Whether your sink is full of grease, soap scum, hair, or food scraps, using bicarbonate of soda and vinegar is a safe and effective way to unclog it with minimal effort.


To use bicarbonate of soda (also known as baking soda) and vinegar to unblock a drain, simply mix equal parts of each in a bowl and pour the mixture down your sink. Leave it to sit for around 30 minutes, then flush it with hot water to clear the blockage. You may need to repeat this process a few times for particularly stubborn blockages, but it should eventually dissolve the debris and allow water to flow freely through your pipes once again.

4. Use a plumber’s snake

When it comes to unclogging a sink, plumbers have a wide range of tools and techniques at their disposal. For clogs in the kitchen sink, one of the most commonly used tools is the plumber's snake. Also known as a drain auger or drain wire, this long and flexible cable helps to break up and remove debris from clogged drains. Unlike chemical drain cleaners that can damage plumbing fixtures and pipes, a plumber's snake is designed specifically for the mechanical removal of blockages, making it a safer choice for homeowners.


Furthermore, its small diameter allows it to manoeuvre around pipes more easily than larger cables or rods, enabling it to reach clogged areas in both straight pipes and curves. So if your kitchen sink is backed up and you are looking for an effective way to clear the drains without damaging your pipes, consider using a plumber's snake instead of a chemical cleaner or other tool. It is sure to get the job done fast!

5. Use a drain unblocker like Mr Muscle

 

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A clogged kitchen sink is a common problem that can quickly become a disaster. Standing water can damage your floors and cabinets, and it can also breed bacteria. One way to unblock a kitchen sink is to use a drain unblocker like Mr Muscle. These products are designed to break through tough clogs, and they can be used on a variety of different drains. To use a drain unblocked, simply follow the instructions on the product label. In most cases, you will need to pour the unblocker into the drain and then wait for it to work its magic. After a few minutes, the clog should be broken up and flushed away, leaving your sink free-flowing once again.

6. Check your sink’s drainage pipe for clogs

Sink drains are one of the most commonly clogged fixtures in the home. Whether you notice a slow drip or a sudden flood, it is crucial to address any blockages as soon as possible, both to save your pipes and to prevent water damage. There are several tools and techniques that you can use to remove clogs from your drain, but one of the most effective is also one of the easiest: simply check your sink's drainage pipe for clogs.


This is often a simple task, requiring little more than a pair of gloves and a flashlight. Simply put on your gloves and run your fingers along the inside surface of the pipe to feel for any blockages. Depending on how bad the clog is, you may also need to use a wet vac or other plumbing tools to clear out larger blockages that have built up inside the pipe. By regularly checking your drains for clogs, you can help keep your pipes free from buildup and avoid expensive repair costs in the long run.

Why do our sinks become blocked?

 

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Sinks usually become blocked when too much debris accumulates and clogs the drain. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other materials can build up on the walls of the pipe, narrowing the opening and making it difficult for water to flow through. In some cases, an object such as a toy or piece of jewellery can become lodged in the drain, further obstructing the flow.


To prevent your sink from becoming blocked, it is important to regularly clean the drain and remove any buildup. You may also want to install a mesh screen over the drain to catch debris before it has a chance to enter the pipe. By taking these simple precautions, you can help keep your sink flowing freely.

How to avoid blocking your sink

Blocked sinks are one of the most common plumbing problems. They can be caused by a build-up of hair, soap scum, or grease, and can quickly lead to overflows and water damage. To avoid a blocked sink, it is important to regularly clean the drain and remove any debris that may have accumulated.

In addition, be careful not to pour grease or oil down the drain, as these can solidify and cause a blockage. If you do accidentally block your sink, there are a few simple steps you can take to clear the drain.


First, try using a plunger to break up the blockage. If this does not work, you can try pouring boiling water down the drain. If neither of these methods works, you will need to call a plumber to clear the blockage. By taking these simple precautions, you can help prevent blocked sinks and maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Six easy steps to unblocking your kitchen sink. If all of this seems like too much trouble, or if the problem keeps happening, it might be time to call in a professional. But hopefully, these tips will help you take care of the problem yourself – and save some money in the process. Have you ever had to unblock your kitchen sink? What tricks do you use? Share them with us in the comments below!


Upgrade your kitchen sink with a boiling water tap from Verana. Alternatively, find out more about how a boiling water tap works.