How to Unblock a Kitchen Sink: A Step-by-Step Guide

There are few things more frustrating than a blocked kitchen sink when you’re in the middle of cooking or washing up. But before you rush to call a plumber, there are some simple steps you can try yourself to clear the blockage and save some money in the process.

Why Does a Kitchen Sink Get Blocked?

Most kitchen sink blockages happen because food scraps, grease and soap scum build up in the drainpipe over time. Bits of vegetable peelings, coffee grounds or fat can slowly clog the pipes, stopping water from flowing away properly.

Step 1: Clear the Visible Debris

First things first, check the plughole for any obvious bits of food or debris you can fish out by hand. You might want to wear gloves for this as it’s not always the most pleasant task.

Step 2: Boiling Water to the Rescue

If the blockage isn’t visible, try pouring a kettle of boiling water down the drain. This can help melt away any grease or fat causing the blockage. Just pour slowly, in stages, giving it a few minutes to work.

Step 3: Use a Plunger

If boiling water alone doesn’t do the trick, grab a sink plunger. Make sure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the plunger’s cup, then give it a few good pumps. The suction can often loosen whatever’s stuck further down.

Step 4: Try a Baking Soda and Vinegar Mix

For a more natural unblocker, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz away for 15 to 20 minutes, then flush with hot water. It’s a classic trick that works surprisingly well on grease and grime.

Step 5: Check the Trap

If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, the next place to check is the U-shaped pipe underneath the sink, known as the trap. Place a bucket underneath then unscrew it to clear out any trapped debris. Just be careful with the fittings and make sure to tighten everything back up properly.

How a Sink Waste Disposal Can Help Prevent Blockages

If you’re fed up with frequent blockages, installing a sink waste disposal might be worth considering. These handy devices shred food waste into tiny particles that wash easily down the drain, reducing the chance of scraps building up and causing a blockage. They’re especially useful in busy kitchens where lots of vegetable peelings, coffee grounds and leftovers tend to go down the sink.

When to Call a Professional

If none of these steps work and your sink remains blocked, it’s probably time to call a plumber. Sometimes the blockage is deeper in the pipes or caused by something more stubborn.

Blocked kitchen sinks don’t have to ruin your day. With a bit of patience and the right approach, you can often fix the problem yourself. Give these tips a go next time you’re wondering how to unblock a kitchen sink; it might be easier than you think.