Simple Solutions for Your Clogged Bathroom Sinks

Slow-draining or clogged sinks are nothing new and don’t warrant a full-on panic, but they can be annoying and something you might put off addressing for a little too long as a homeowner.

However, we’re here to give you some simple tips for quickly unclogging bathroom sinks.

Why Do Sinks Clog?

It should go without saying, especially if you have a home full of little ones, that your sinks are getting a lot of attention. Over time it’s only normal that a buildup of toothpaste, grooming chemicals, and even hair will form and eventually lead to a blockage.

While there are certain instances when calling a plumbing professional is necessary, we have some easy solutions for dealing with your run-of-the-mill sink clog.

How to Un-clog Your Sinks

We recommend wearing some form of protective eyewear and latex gloves. You don’t have to go all out in a hazmat suit, but we’re sure you don’t want to come in direct contact with what’s stuck in your sink.

Before trying any of these methods, we also recommend removing your drain cover, typically they thread into the drain, so try unscrewing it by turning it to the left.

1. Boiling Water

Great for sinks that are slow-draining or clogged with soap.

Boil a large pot or kettle full of water and then pour it down the drain. Try this method a few times (3 or 4) and if it doesn’t work move to the next option!

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar

Seems old-school but (as most things are) is truly effective.

Simply mix 1/3 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of vinegar and immediately pour it down the drain (you will hear a fizzing sound). Wait an hour then flush it down with hot water.

3. Wet and Dry Vacuum

If none of the other methods worked give this tool a go. Set the vacuum to the highest liquid setting and let it do the rest. Usually the suction is strong enough to dislodge the clog.

Did any of those methods work for you? Let us know!

If you find yourself faced with a particularly stubborn clog, try cleaning the trap. It may sound like a job for professionals but really all you need is a bucket and a wrench!

Place the bucket under the u-shaped pipe (the trap) and loosen the slip nuts on each end and empty contents into the bucket. We should also mention that we recommend protective eyewear and gloves for this process, too.

Regular cleaning of your sinks and bath as well as the drain stoppers can help prevent clogs from even occurring. Find some of our other tried and true prevention methods here.

If you find yourself with a serious drain issue, then don’t hesitate to call in a certified plumbing professional.

Plumbing issues left untreated can do serious damage to your home.

For all your other home safety and function concerns, let the team at Chicago Building Inspections take care of you! Schedule a home or building inspection with our easy online scheduling tool.