A slow-draining sink is annoying, but don’t let it turn into a major plumbing problem! Whether it's hair, soap scum, or debris, you can fix it yourself without calling a plumber.
A slow drain is usually caused by:
✔ Hair & soap scum buildup
✔ Toothpaste residue
✔ Small objects (like jewelry or Q-tips)
✔ Hard water deposits
Luckily, you don’t need harsh chemicals to fix the issue. Try one of these simple DIY solutions!
✔ Check Your Pipes! If you have plastic (PVC) pipes, skip this step—boiling water can damage them.
✔ Boil a pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain.
✔ Wait a few minutes and see if the water drains faster.
✔ Repeat if needed.
💡 Pro Tip: If your sink has standing water, remove it first before adding boiling water.
This fizzing reaction breaks down soap scum and grime.
✔ Pour ¼ cup of baking soda down the drain.
✔ Add 1 ¼ cup of white vinegar (you’ll see it bubble up!).
✔ Cover the drain with a stopper or towel to trap the reaction.
✔ Wait 20 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
✔ Repeat if needed or try another method.
A small sink plunger works wonders for stubborn clogs.
✔ Remove the sink stopper.
✔ Fill the sink with a few inches of water (this helps create suction).
✔ Place the plunger over the drain and press down firmly.
✔ Plunge up and down for 15 seconds, then pull up quickly.
✔ Test the drain. If needed, repeat a few times.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep separate plungers for your kitchen and bathroom! 🚽🚰
A drain snake helps with deep clogs that a plunger can’t reach.
✔ Remove the P-trap (curved pipe under the sink) and check for debris.
✔ Insert the drain snake into the pipe until you hit resistance.
✔ Twist & push to break up the clog.
✔ Pull out the snake (you may see hair and gunk!).
✔ Reassemble the P-trap and flush with hot water.
If nothing else works, try a wet-dry vacuum.
✔ Set your vacuum to "wet mode."
✔ Seal the hose over the drain.
✔ Turn it on & pulse the suction.
✔ The clog should come loose!
✔ Use a drain cover to catch hair.
✔ Clean your stopper regularly (it collects a ton of debris!).
✔ Pour boiling water weekly to prevent buildup.
✔ Skip chemical drain cleaners (they damage pipes over time).
If your bathroom sink just won’t unclog, it may be time for professional help. The Trade Table carries brand-new sinks, we have great options for every style and budget!
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