Tips on Unclogging a Bathroom Sink

Common Culprits in Bathroom Sink Clogs

Understanding what causes bathroom sink clogs can help you prevent them in the first place. Here are some of the common culprits in bathroom sink clogs:

• Soap Scum
• Pieces of Bar Soap
• Toothpaste
• Hair
• Oils and Grease
• Hygiene and Grooming Products (like toothpicks, floss, and gels)
• Damaged or Misaligned Pipes or P-Trap

Do your best to prevent these items from going down the drains. A drain filter can help but mindfulness is best. Also remember to schedule routine plumbing inspections to catch damaged pipes and p-traps sooner rather than later.

Method 1: Baking Soda and Vinegar

Do you remember that elementary school volcano project with red-dyed vinegar and baking soda? That chemical reaction will come in handy here as well. Pour around half a cup of baking soda down the drain and follow it up with a half cup of vinegar. You should hear the fizzing as the reaction starts up and breaks apart the debris. Let that mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes and heat some water in the meantime, but make sure it’s not boiling. Pour the hot water down the drain to flush everything down.

Method 2: Plunger

If the chemicals did not work or if the sink is overflowed, then it’s time to pull out the elbow grease and plunger. Fill the bowl about half way with water and line the plunger up to completely seal the drain. Push the plunger directly downward to send pressure against the blockage. Try this until the debris becomes dislodged and the water flows down the drain line.

Method 3: Drain Snake

If the blockage is stubborn, then the drain snake might be the tool of choice. If you have a drain filter installed, you will likely have to remove it to use the drain snake in the bathroom sink. With the obstruction removed, you can insert the drain snake into the sink until you feel it hit the blockage. Next, twist the drain snake as you push to penetrate through the blockage and dislodge in. Pull the drain snake back out to remove the debris and clean it off the drain snake.

Method 3: Hire a Plumber

If you prefer to save your time and leave the plumbing work to the professionals, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to have an experienced plumber in Dallas quickly take care of that clogged bathroom sink. We are excited to serve all areas of Dallas, TX.