Sinks clogging up occasionally are part of life. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t feel helpless and frustrated when you notice that water isn’t draining properly or even at all. The good news is that there are several ways you can unclog your sink and get it draining once again. 

1. Pour boiling water down the drain 

Many times, clogging is due to the buildup of grease in the drain. You can get rid of the grease that is clogging your drain by pouring boiling hot water down the drain. Make sure to get rid of any standing water in the sink before pouring the hot water down the drain. This will ensure that the hot water isn’t diluted and cooled down. 

Wait a few minutes and repeat the process two or three times to melt and move the clog. 

2. Force the clog out with a plunger 

If the drain is still clogged, get your plunger out. A plunger will help to force the clog down the drain. Most clogging issues in sinks can be resolved by plunging. 

It is important to ensure a tight seal and as much pressure as possible. If you have a double sink, ensure that you seal off the other drain with a stopper before you attempt to plunge the drain. Fill the sink with water to create an airtight seal and plunge with as much force as you can. You can repeat the pumping motion several times to clear the clog. 

3. Clean the P-trap 

If you experience frequent clogging, your sink’s P-trap may be filled with debris. The P-trap is the curved part of the drainpipe under the sink. You will need to clean it to clear the clog and experience less frequent clogging.  

Place a bucket or pan under the drain to catch water and debris. Unfasten the drainpipe and flush it with water. Scrape any debris out and clean it. You may also want to run it under hot water to get grease out. Replace the pipe and run warm water through the pipes for a few minutes. 

4. Use an auger 

An auger or a plumbing snake will help you maneuver the drainage system of your sink to unclog your sink. It is especially beneficial when the clogging has occurred beyond the P-trap. 

Unfasten the P-trap and drainpipe under the sink to expose the stub pipe. This is the pipe that runs through the wall to the main drain. Insert the plumber’s snake and push until you feel resistance. Use it to break up the clog and reassemble the drainage system to see whether it is draining properly. 

If you don’t have an auger, you can make use of a wire coat hanger in its place. Unwind the coat hanger and straighten it out. Insert one of its ends into the stub pipe. Push until you feel resistance and use the coat hanger to break up the clog. Be careful not to scratch and damage your sink with the wire. 

Have a clogged sink? Try the tips above to unclog it.