How To Clean Clogged Kitchen Sink

How to Clean a Clogged Kitchen Sink

A clogged kitchen sink can be a real nuisance, but it's usually a problem that you can fix yourself without calling a plumber. In most cases, the clog is caused by a buildup of food particles, grease, and other debris in the drainpipe. By following these simple steps, you can clear the clog and get your sink running smoothly again.

Step 1: Remove the Standing Water

Before you start working on the clog, you need to remove as much of the standing water from the sink as possible. You can do this by using a cup or a bowl to scoop out the water, or by using a wet/dry vacuum to suck it up.

Step 2: Locate the Drain Hole

Once the standing water has been removed, you need to locate the drain hole. The drain hole is usually located in the center of the sink basin, but it can sometimes be located off to one side. Once you have located the drain hole, you can move on to the next step.

Step 3: Remove the Drain Stopper

If your sink has a drain stopper, you need to remove it before you can clear the clog. Drain stoppers are usually held in place by a screw or a twist-off mechanism. Once you have removed the drain stopper, you can move on to the next step.

Step 4: Insert the Drain Snake

A drain snake is a long, flexible tool that is used to clear clogs from drains. Drain snakes are available at most hardware stores. To use a drain snake, simply insert the snake into the drain hole and turn the handle. The snake will work its way through the clog, breaking it up and dislodging it from the pipe.

Step 5: Pour Hot Water Down the Drain

Once you have cleared the clog, you should pour a pot of hot water down the drain to help flush out any remaining debris. You can also add a cup of baking soda to the hot water to help dissolve any grease or soap scum that may be stuck in the pipe.

Step 6: Reset the Drain Stopper

If you removed the drain stopper earlier, you can now reset it. To reset the drain stopper, simply insert it into the drain hole and turn the screw or twist-off mechanism until it is secure.

Step 7: Run the Water

Once you have reset the drain stopper, you can run the water to test the drain. If the water drains smoothly, then you have successfully cleared the clog. If the water still drains slowly, you may need to repeat the above steps.