Introduction
Dealing with a clogged bathroom sink can be frustrating, especially when you’re in a rush to get ready in the morning. Before reaching for harsh chemicals or calling a plumber, try these 10 easy and cost-effective ways to unclog your bathroom sink.
1. Use a Plunger
One of the simplest and most effective ways to unclog your bathroom sink is by using a plunger. Make sure there is enough water in the sink to cover the rubber part of the plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and plunge up and down several times to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
2. Pour Boiling Water
Boiling water can help break down and wash away built-up grease and soap scum that may be causing the clog in your bathroom sink. Carefully pour boiling water down the drain and repeat a few times to see if it clears the blockage.
3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
Combine equal parts baking soda and vinegar to create a foaming reaction that can help break down the clog in your sink. Pour the mixture down the drain, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then flush it out with hot water.
4. Try a Plumbing Snake
If the clog in your bathroom sink is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a plumbing snake to physically remove the blockage. Insert the snake into the drain and twist it to hook onto the clog, then pull it out to clear the drain.
5. Remove and Clean the P-Trap
The P-trap is the curved pipe underneath your sink that traps debris and prevents it from clogging the drain. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts holding the P-trap in place, then remove and clean it out. Once cleaned, reattach the P-trap and test the sink to see if the clog is gone.
6. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you have a wet/dry vacuum at home, you can use it to suck out the clog from your bathroom sink drain. Make sure to create a tight seal around the drain with the vacuum attachment and set it to liquid mode to remove the blockage.
7. Create a DIY Drain Cleaner
Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of cream of tartar to create a homemade drain cleaner. Pour the mixture down the drain, followed by boiling water, to help dissolve the clog and keep your sink smelling fresh.
8. Use a Wire Hanger
Straighten out a wire hanger and create a small hook at one end to help pull out hair and debris from your bathroom sink drain. Insert the hanger into the drain and twist it to catch the clog, then carefully pull it out.
9. Use a Combination of Vinegar and Alka-Seltzer
Drop a couple of Alka-Seltzer tablets down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the fizzing action work to break down the clog, then flush it out with hot water.
10. Call a Professional Plumber
If all else fails and you’re still unable to unclog your bathroom sink, it may be time to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.