A clogged kitchen sink can pause your daily activities. The reasons behind clogging of kitchen sink could be buildup of food particles, grease, soap scum and other debris in the drainpipes. These materials, over the years get accumulate in large amounts and decrease the flow of water, leading to blockages in the kitchen sink. The clogged kitchen sink releases odor, which is an indication that you need to unclog the sink drain.
There are several ways to unclog a kitchen sink drainage. To know about the ways to unclog the kitchen sink drain, you can read this blog.
5 Methods to Unclog a Kitchen Sink Drain
Here are some methods and their steps to unclog your kitchen sink drain.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Remove the standing water as much as possible to clear the clogged drain.
Step 2: Pour a cup of baking soda directly into the drain.
Step 3: Now, slowly pour the vinegar into the drain. When it reacts with baking soda, the mixture will begin fizzing.
Step 4: Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to break the clog.
Step 5: Lastly, pour boiling water into the drain and flush it to clean any leftover debris.
| Notes | This solution works well in the case of grease and soap scum. |
Drain Snake
Step 1: Push the snake into the drain until it hits the clog.
Step 2: Twist the drain snake lightly and push it further into the pipe to break up the clog.
Step 3: Now, take the snake out with the clogged debris.
Step 4: Run the water to check whether the clog is cleared or not.
| Notes | Drain Snake can be used to remove debris located deep in the pipes or to get rid of stubborn clog materials like food or hair. |
Chemical Drain Cleaner
Step 1: Select the cleaner that is made for kitchen sinks and ensure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, written on the label.
Step 2: Pour the suggested amount of cleaner into your sink’s drain.
Step 3: Allow the cleaner to rest for the recommended time to dissolve the clog.
Step 4: Lastly, flush the drain with cold water to remove any remnants of cleaner and debris.
| Notes | Choose to use the chemical cleaner only when necessary, as it can be a threat to your pipes. Additionally, use it with caution as it contains some harsh ingredients. However, it cleans severe clogs. |
Plunger
Step 1: Remove the standing water using a cup to scoop the water from the sink. Some methods may require fresh water, hence ensure to follow this.
Step 2: Use a cup plunger to remove small clogs. Additionally, use a simple plunger with a flat trim to dislodge the clog.
Step 3: Add adequate water to submerge the head of the plunger and place the cup over the drain opening.
Step 4: Now, push and pull the plunger rapidly, keeping it underwater, and lift it only an inch on each upstroke.
Step 5: Remove the plunger and check if the water drains. Repeat the process until it happens easily.
| Notes | Ensure to keep separate plungers to use in the kitchen. |
Use Boiling Water
Step 1: Boil half a gallon of water.
Step 2: Get rid of standing water from the sink.
Step 3: Carefully take the boiling water off the stove and pour it directly into the drain in a steady stream.
Step 4: Check if the water begins to drain freely.
Step 5: If it doesn't drain, let the water sink to cool down completely. Afterwards, repeat the process.
| Notes | Ensure not to use this method if the drain is attached to PVC pipes. This is because boiling water could soften or damage the material. |
Final Words
Unclogging your sink is a part of keeping your kitchen clean. So, whenever it gets clogged up, there are multiple ways to unclog it. However, it’s important to understand which method to use to remove the clogs effectively from your kitchen sink drain. This is required to ensure proper cleaning and to keep the materials safe from damage.
