How to Clear a Slow Sink Drain

A slow draining sink can be frustrating, especially when it is a sink that you use often. Most problems that cause this to happen can be fixed quickly and easily at home, without having to hire a professional. There are a number of different ways to go about unplugging the drain using items you probably already have on hand.

• Put water on to boil. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain. You may have to push it down with a chop stick or Q-tip. Pour 1/2 cup of white vinegar down the drain. It will fizz when it mixes with the baking soda. Get the water that is now boiling and pour that down the drain. Run water to see if your sink is now draining properly. You may need to repeat this procedure. You can also use this method for regular drain maintenance once or twice per year.


• Use a plunger. Place a wet washcloth into the overflow hole. Turn on the water and let the sink fill up a little and plunge a few times. Run the water to see if it is going down faster; if not try plunging again.


• Remove the trap. Turn off the water to that sink. Wear gloves and remove the trap with pliers. Bang out any gunk in the trap; then using another sink, rinse the trap under hot water. Replace the trap, turn the water back on and run hot water through the pipes.


• Try liquid drain cleaners. These can be purchased from a hardware or home improvement store. These should not be used if your sink is not draining at all. Follow all precautions and instructions when using these drain cleaners as they can be very harmful. Pour the recommended amount down drain. After use be sure to follow with a lot of water to flush the chemicals out of the pipes. Be sure not to mix different chemicals and to stick to one product.