A kitchen sink that refuses to drain is an issue no one wants to experience. Thankfully, many types of clogs and blockages can be taken care of effectively using DIY methods that aren’t very complicated. Let’s take a look at how to unclog a kitchen sink drain quickly.

How Do You Unclog a Kitchen Sink Without an Expert?

Plunging

To address a clogged kitchen sink using a plunger, first clear any visible food particles or debris from the drain opening. Ensure a tight seal by covering the adjacent sink drain in a double sink with a wet cloth, which prevents air from escaping.

Position the plunger over the sink drain and fill the sink partially with warm water to cover the plunger cup. Vigorously pump the plunger up and down several times, applying forceful pressure to dislodge the clog. After several pushes, quickly remove the plunger to see if the water drains smoothly. If the sink remains clogged, repeating this process may be necessary to ensure the sink drainage is clear.

Hot Water

For minor kitchen sink clogs, simply running hot tap water can effectively clear the obstruction. Begin by allowing the sink to drain completely of any standing water. Then, run hot water directly from the faucet into the drain for several minutes.

The heat helps dissolve substances like grease or soap that may have hardened inside the pipes, facilitating an easier water flow. This method is particularly effective for sinks that are draining slowly. However, avoid pouring down boiling water, as it isn’t safe for PVC pipes and other materials.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Baking soda and vinegar are effective solutions for clearing clogged kitchen sinks. Start by pouring one cup of baking soda directly into the drain, followed by an equal amount of white vinegar.

The mixture will cause a bubbling reaction that helps break down the gunk in the pipe. After letting the mixture sit for an hour, flush the drain with hot water to cleanse any remaining residue. This approach clears the clogs and can potentially deodorize the sink.

Coat Hanger

A wire coat hanger can be a handy tool for dislodging tougher clogs that are out of reach. Straighten the hanger and create a small hook at one end. Remove the sink’s drain cover and carefully insert the hook end into the kitchen sink drain. 

Gently prod and twist the hanger to catch and pull up debris such as hair or food waste. Once you feel the resistance lessen or debris comes out, run hot water to check if the clog has cleared. This method is good for clogs located beyond the elbow-shaped pipe.

My Kitchen Sink Is Clogged — Should I Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner?

Chemical drain cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Over time, these chemicals may weaken the structural integrity of your pipes — leading to leaks or breaks.

Instead, opting for natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar can achieve a similar unclogging effect without the associated risks. Natural methods not only preserve your kitchen plumbing but also ensure the safety of your household and the surrounding area.

What Situations Should I Call for Professional Drain Cleaning?

While many kitchen sink clogs can be resolved with DIY methods, some situations require the expertise of a professional plumber. If repeated attempts with a plunger, hot water, or natural cleaners fail to clear the clog, it may indicate a more stubborn blockage deep within the drain system. 

Additionally, if the clog recurs frequently or the sink begins to back up with water, these are signs that a deeper, more complex issue may be present, such as a blockage in the main sewer line. In such cases, professional plumbers can use tools like a drain snake or a plumber’s snake to effectively clear tough clogs without damaging the pipes.

If You Need Help Unclogging a Drain, Reach Out to PR Plumbing

Unsure of how to drain a kitchen sink? Don’t know how to fix a clogged kitchen sink? Whatever the case may be, there’s no need to worry when PR Plumbing is around. We offer a variety of plumbing services, including clearing blocked drains so that water can continue to flow unimpeded through your pipes. 

Get in touch today to schedule a service for your home!