Few things are more frustrating than a kitchen sink that refuses to drain. Whether it’s after washing dishes or prepping dinner, a clogged sink can bring your kitchen to a standstill. If your kitchen sink is clogged and you’ve tried everything, don’t worry, there are still reliable ways to fix the issue before calling in the pros.
In this post, we’ll go over the most effective methods for how to unclog a kitchen sink, what to avoid, and when to seek help from a professional plumber near me.
Common Reasons Your Kitchen Sink Is Clogged
Clogs can occur for a variety of reasons, but most kitchen sink blockages come from:
- Grease buildup from cooking oils
- Food particles trapped in the drain
- Soap scum and detergent residue
- Foreign objects accidentally dropped in the sink
How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink: 4 Effective Methods
If your kitchen sink is clogged, try these methods before dismantling pipes or reaching for harsh chemicals:
1. Boiling Water
Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can help dissolve light grease or soap build-up.
2. Plunger Power
Use a sink plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog. Be sure to block the other drain hole if you have a double sink. Be careful, as you are pushing air through the drain, it can also dislodge or cause the piping to come apart if it is loose.
3. Manual Removal
Remove the sink strainer and check for visible debris. Use a plumbing snake to pull out debris lodged near the surface.
4. Dish Soap and Hot Water
Squirt dish soap into the drain and along with hot water. This method works best to break up grease.
Also Read – 10 Things to Avoid Putting in Garbage Disposals
Want a more detailed guide? Check out this helpful resource from HomeServe: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink
When to Call the Pros
If these DIY solutions don’t work and your kitchen sink is clogged, it might be time to contact us. Persistent blockages deep in your plumbing often require professional tools and expertise. Call Zeek Plumbing at (866) 635-0200.
FAQs About Unclogging Kitchen Sinks
What is the fastest way to drain a clogged sink?
The fastest method is typically snaking the sink drain.
Why should you never use baking soda and vinegar to unclog a drain?
Though often recommended online, this combo rarely works well. It creates foam but lacks the pressure to clear tough clogs, and it can actually make the blockage worse by pushing it deeper.
How can I prevent future clogs?
Avoid pouring grease down the sink, use a drain strainer, and regularly flush the drain with hot water. Running water while using the garbage disposal also helps push waste through smoothly.
Should I use chemical drain cleaners?
Chemical cleaners are harsh and can damage the plumbing over time, especially older drains. Use them only as a last resort and never mix different types of chemicals.
Ryan has been a part of the Zeek Plumbing team since 2019, and has lived in Randolph, NJ his entire life.
He takes pride in taking care of the towns, the families, and the areas he grew up in!
Ryan has been the Treasurer and is currently on the Membership committee of a local BNI Chapter based out of Morris County, NJ in the networking group, BNI Main Street.
