How to Unblock a Kitchen Sink

Blocked kitchen sink? Don’t panic! It happens to the best of us. Whether it’s food scraps, grease, or even soap buildup causing the issue, a clogged sink can quickly turn into a messy headache. 

But the good news is, you might not need to call a plumber just yet. We’ll show you how to unblock a kitchen sink with simple, practical steps you can try at home.

Let’s address it before it’s too late—because nobody wants dirty water sitting in their sink for long!

Why Does Your Kitchen Sink Get Blocked?

Before jumping to solutions, it’s helpful to understand why your sink is blocked. Most often, clogs happen because:

• Food scraps and leftovers go down the drain.
• Grease or oil hardens inside the pipes.
• Soap residue and dirt build up over time.

   

Knowing the cause can help you pick the best method to unblock your kitchen sink.

How Do I Unblock a Kitchen Sink?

1. Try Hot Water First

Sometimes, all your sink needs is a good flush of hot water. Boil a kettle and carefully pour the hot water down the drain in stages. This can melt grease and loosen minor blockages.

Tip: Avoid using boiling water if you have PVC pipes, as extreme heat might damage them.

2. Use a Plunger

A plunger is a kitchen hero when it comes to clearing clogs. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger cup.
2. Place the plunger over the drain and push up and down firmly.
3. After a few attempts, check if the water starts draining.

This method creates suction and can dislodge stubborn blockages.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar Magic

For a natural and effective solution, try this combo:

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the drain.
2. Follow it with half a cup of vinegar.
3. Let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.

This is an excellent method for breaking down grease and cleaning kitchen sink drain pipes.

4. Check and Clean the Drain Pipe

If your sink is still clogged, it’s time to inspect the drain pipe:

1. Place a bucket under the sink to catch any water.
2. Unscrew the U-bend (also known as the P-trap) under your sink.
3. Remove any debris or buildup inside the pipe.
4. Reattach the pipe and check if the sink is now unblocked.

This step might sound intimidating, but it’s often the best way to clean kitchen sink drain pipes thoroughly.

5. Use a Drain Snake

A drain snake (or plumber’s auger) is a handy tool for tackling tougher clogs. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to break up or pull out the blockage. This is especially helpful for deep, hard-to-reach clogs.

What If None of These Work?

If you’ve tried everything and the water still won’t drain, it’s time to call in the experts. Severe clogs may need professional tools and expertise to clear.

Prevention Tips to Keep Your Sink Flowing

• Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain—use a container to dispose of it instead.
• Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps and debris.
• Run hot water down the drain regularly to prevent buildup.

   

If your kitchen sink is still clogged or you want expert help, Alkimos Plumbing & Gas is here for you! We specialise in unblocking kitchen drains and cleaning pipes quickly and efficiently in Perth.

Get your kitchen sink back in action