Are you getting frustrated with your clogged kitchen sink? Whether it's due to grease buildup, food particles, or any other debris, a blocked kitchen sink can be frustrating and nasty, even ruining your day. But don’t panic, you can easily unblock your kitchen sink without calling a plumber every time. In this blog, let's check out some useful methods and tips to unclog the kitchen sink.

1. Unblock the sink with baking soda and vinegar

Use the most common and easiest method of using vinegar and baking soda to unclog the sink. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of white vinegar, into the drain and allow it to rest overnight or at least 1-2 hours. Flush with hot water. This method helps to dissolve small blockages in the pipes.

2. Unblock the sink with a plunger

This is another common method to unblock sinks using a plunger. Remove the debris or food particles from the sink before placing the plunger on the drain. Block the overflow opening (if any) with a wet cloth for effective plunging. Place the plunger over the drain and push down slowly, then pull up quickly. Repeat this motion several times. Run hot water through the drain and check if it's cleared, and repeat plunging until it gets cleared.

3. Unblock the sink using a drain snake

A drain snake is a long, flexible metal cable used to remove the blockage in the drain pipes. It can be inserted into a clogged drain and manually pushed and rotated to break up or recover the block. Then flush hot water through the drain to see if stubborn blockages are cleared.

4. Use a wire

Grab a long, flexible wire tool and insert it into the drain. When you push it inside, it will bend around the pipe, helping to remove the block. You can either buy a specialised tool, which is cheaper or reuse a straightened wire coat hanger. 

5. Use chemical drain cleaner

If you cannot unblock the sink using the above methods, try using a chemical drain cleaner. But these chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes or cause harm if not used properly. Be cautious with the chemical substances and wear gloves before using them. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

6.     Unscrew the U-bend 

When all of the above methods won’t work, you may need to unscrew the U-bend and clear the blockage yourself. It’s a simple job, but be prepared to get a bit dirty and work in a cramped space. Wear some old clothes, rubber gloves, and keep towels handy. Use a wrench to slowly unscrew the U-bend or bottle trap, and take a picture to remember how it goes back together. Have a bucket or bowl ready for any water, and be sure to rinse the parts in a separate sink or outside to avoid getting wet feet. Reinstall everything in its original position after clearing the pipes.

If none of these methods work, it may be best to consult a professional plumber to identify and fix the issue. Or get a plumbing kit and take the task into your own hands.

How to Prevent Sink Blockages

Kitchen sinks can be blocked for several reasons, and sometimes it’s important to know what causes the sink blockage to avoid such situations in future. Some of the common issues are grease or oil buildup, food particles and debris, soap scum and residue, hair or any other external particles.

To Prevent Sink Blockage: Run hot water regularly through the kitchen sink. This helps to dissolve the grease, oily particles, or food particles to dissolve and wash them out.

Use a Strainer Waste/Drain Screen: Place a strainer waste in your sink to catch the food particles and debris.

Avoid Pouring Oil or Grease: Pouring grease or oil down the drain can cause buildup and sediments in the pipes. It's best to avoid pouring them directly down the drain. If you must dispose of them, follow with hot water to help prevent clogs.

Unblocking a kitchen sink can be a DIY-friendly task with the right tools and techniques. By following these methods, you can clear blockages and get your sink flowing freely. To avoid future issues, take preventive measures and maintain your kitchen sink regularly.

Here we have some great products that can prevent sink blockage.

Strainer Waste - Our high-quality strainer wastes are a must-have for your kitchen sink. They catch large food particles and debris, preventing them from slipping down the drain and reducing the risk of clogs and blockages.

Waste Disposers and Organisers - Our waste disposers powerfully break down food waste into tiny particles that flow smoothly through your drainage system. With easy installation, low energy consumption, our disposers offer an eco-friendly solution for a cleaner kitchen.